tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49541684021107600882018-02-14T20:07:02.473-05:00Sunshine and ScribblingsRead. Write. Repeat.m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-55040231325904014892018-02-14T01:04:00.001-05:002018-02-14T01:04:11.521-05:00Book Review: A Song Unheard {Roseanna M. White}<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1M7znG3L3c/WoOLK2foJ1I/AAAAAAAAGAw/_cvo6wV5BhYjUyVHITHON4HV59d6kAeqwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/book%2Breview_%2Ba%2Bsong%2Bunheard%2B%25252F%25252F%2Broseanna%2Bm.%2Bwhite1.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1M7znG3L3c/WoOLK2foJ1I/AAAAAAAAGAw/_cvo6wV5BhYjUyVHITHON4HV59d6kAeqwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/book%2Breview_%2Ba%2Bsong%2Bunheard%2B%25252F%25252F%2Broseanna%2Bm.%2Bwhite1.png" /></a></div><br />AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.<br /><br />Don't mind me. Just needed to get that out of my system. :P<br /><br />SO THIS BOOK .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. it was phenomenal. As good as the first book? Nope. But then again, <i>nothing </i>is as good as the first book.<br /><br />Was this one still amazing?? YOU BET YOUR BUTTONS.<br /><br />In honor of Valentine's Day (one of my <i>favorite </i>holidays - wish I had the time to do more Valentines-themed posts), I'll be sharing the review of the PHENOMENAL sequel to A Name Unknown. I'm. So. Excited.<br /><br />Let's get down to business. *cracks knuckles*<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZwAOgyKmfs/WoOEIOwjyLI/AAAAAAAAGAU/WFbHsU5m0Csar1qcukac9bnm2Rqmm51hACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/BLURB%2Blettering.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZwAOgyKmfs/WoOEIOwjyLI/AAAAAAAAGAU/WFbHsU5m0Csar1qcukac9bnm2Rqmm51hACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/BLURB%2Blettering.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DjcK1nxZkQ/WoOBYzS-ZdI/AAAAAAAAGAE/G4duZvqzZX0SUPZMHo52V_8TGnl6p95sACLcBGAs/s1600/A%2BSong%2BUnheard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DjcK1nxZkQ/WoOBYzS-ZdI/AAAAAAAAGAE/G4duZvqzZX0SUPZMHo52V_8TGnl6p95sACLcBGAs/s320/A%2BSong%2BUnheard.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Willa Forsythe is both a violin prodigy and top-notch thief, which make her the perfect choice for a crucial task at the outset of World War I—to steal a cypher from a famous violinist currently in Wales.&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lukas De Wilde has enjoyed the life of fame he's won—until now, when being recognized nearly gets him killed. Everyone wants the key to his father's work as a cryptologist. And Lukas fears that his mother and sister, who have vanished in the wake of the German invasion of Belgium, will pay the price. The only light he finds is in meeting the intriguing Willa Forsythe.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But danger presses in from every side, and Willa knows what Lukas doesn't—that she must betray him and find that cypher, or her own family will pay the price as surely as his has.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Find on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35069089-a-song-unheard?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> &amp; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Song-Unheard-Shadows-Over-England/dp/0764219278/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&amp;qid=1518568029&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank">Amazon</a>!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpVqn2vpRp4/WoOEZEkELDI/AAAAAAAAGAc/YVLuhuzYleQJoEQHpcIchL1xZmIPmDs-QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/REVIEW%2Blettering.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpVqn2vpRp4/WoOEZEkELDI/AAAAAAAAGAc/YVLuhuzYleQJoEQHpcIchL1xZmIPmDs-QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/REVIEW%2Blettering.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Find my review on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2096558260" target="_blank">Goodreads </a>&amp; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/RM79QSSDD7EDB/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&amp;ASIN=0764219278" target="_blank">Amazon</a>)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">:: LOVELY THINGS ::</h3><div><br /></div><div>- <b>Willa. </b>Let's just get this out right now: <i>I'm obsessed with all these characters. </i>Willa reminds me a lot of Rosemary, but she's still uniquely <i>Willa. </i>Afraid to love because that opens her up to hurt. Prickly as a cactus on the outside yet soft as a marshmallow on the inside. She's strong and sassy and spirited. Never afraid to speak her mind. Smart and attentive to allll the details. Full of passion, with music flowing through her veins.</div><div><br /></div><div>In short, she's pretty darn amazing.</div><div><br /></div><div>I absolutely love her character arc. LIKE I WAS CRYING, PEOPLE. Goodness. &lt;3</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>Lukas. </b>Ah yes .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. Lukas. ;) He was SO DIFFERENT from Peter. All flirt and sweet charm and tease. He about drove Willa crazy, and I loved that. xD Plus, he loves his family so much and has so much loyalty and dedication. He makes me smile and roll my eyes and asgfkfld&nbsp;he's TOO ADORABLE.</div><div><br /></div><div>Must say .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. nobody compares to Peter. (I want to marry him. *grins*) But Lukas was his own kind of darling, and he was p e r f e c t for Willa.</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>Margot. </b>OH MY. I loooooooved&nbsp;Margot. She was so sharp and intelligent and over-analytical. She loves equations and puzzles and games of skill. She's basically a genius. Her stubborn will and cunning wit make her someone you don't want to mess with. Quite the firecracker, this one. ;)</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>The setting. </b>World War I, Wales countryside, spies, ciphers, streets of London - THIS SETTING IS EVERYTHING. I absolutely loved everything about it!&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>-&nbsp;<b>The plot. </b>Kind of tied into my last point . .&nbsp;. but <i>c'mon. </i>How can you not love this plot?? It's faster-paced than the first book, for sure, with lots of spies/double-agents/thievery going on. Plus just all the WWI tension. Throw in fantastic characters and two violinists and BAM you have perfection.</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>The writinggggg. </b>Oh my gingersnaps . . . THE WRITING. I could flail forever and a day about the writing style, but I kind of already did in <a href="https://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/08/book-review-name-unknown-roseanna-m.html" target="_blank">my review of A Name Unknown.</a> Needless to say, Roseanna M. White's writing is flawless.</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>The music. </b>My music-loving heart is so full right now. I basically am 1000% more likely to enjoy a book that has music as part of the plot, being a violinist myself. Just . . . all the descriptions and feelings and passions got me right in the feels. &lt;333</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>The romance. </b>*screams into the night like a caffeinated squirrel* (Squirrels totally scream DON'T DOUBT ME.) I don't know where to begin with these two little adorable charries. They are the perfect match, through and through. Willa's aloof yet passionate demeanor, paired with Lukas's teasing and lively personality = EVERYTHING I EVER NEEDED. I love these two together.</div><div><br /></div><div>- <b>THE WHOLE FREAKING THING. </b>This book is just everything I love and more! The faith elements, Willa's family (BARCLAY THOUGH &lt;3), the wonderfully human side characters, the rich writing style, the setting, the <i>romanceeeee </i>*swoon*. . . I loved it all.</div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: center;">:: NOT-SO-LOVELY THINGS ::</h3><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>- Honestly? Not much at all to mention here. I did get a little annoyed with Willa at times when she *SPOILER*<span style="background-color: white;"> <span style="color: white;">kissed Lukas even when she didn't have any intentions of pursuing a relationship at the time. </span></span>*END SPOILER* Overall, I loved the book - it completely earns all five stars - but it just CAN'T match up with the first one, no matter what other people say. ;) A Name Unknown is one of my favorite books of all time, if not my very favorite. It was on a completely different level of five-star love, if that makes any sense.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>BUT YES. If you couldn't tell, I adored this story and am <i>dying </i>as I await book three to come out. It features Barclay (!!!) and I couldn't be more thrilled.</div><h3><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18.72px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">::&nbsp;CONTENT ::</div></h3><div><br /></div><div>Can't remember everything, but it was more romance-heavy than the first book. Some kissing occurs, mentions of Lukas being a scandalous playboy in the past and making decisions he regretted (not too detailed but still not something I would want a younger reader to encounter). Forms of British "cursing" (blazes, blasted, etc.) Some wine is consumed. Not much else that I remember? Nothing I would ever feel uncomfortable with, but I would probably recommend this to people about 15+ for interest levels and details about Lukas's past. :)</div><b><i><br />I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.</i></b><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: 700;">5 STARS!</span></h3><div><span style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Well, are you convinced?? If you haven't read the first book, GO GET YOURSELF A COPY RIGHT NOW. That's an order. Then make sure you have this fantastic sequel on hand because you will need it. ;)</h4></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-77006764131957577912018-02-03T12:11:00.001-05:002018-02-03T12:11:13.011-05:00Announcing the Giveaway Winner! //<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n78DC9jrY6A/WnXshdd8F1I/AAAAAAAAF_o/XRhZN13FRe0i2OvW_-tXXB_rfMAp2DhqACLcBGAs/s1600/Announcing%2Bthe%2Bgiveaway%2Bwinner%2521%2B%25252F%25252F.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n78DC9jrY6A/WnXshdd8F1I/AAAAAAAAF_o/XRhZN13FRe0i2OvW_-tXXB_rfMAp2DhqACLcBGAs/s1600/Announcing%2Bthe%2Bgiveaway%2Bwinner%2521%2B%25252F%25252F.png" /></a></div><br />OKAY SO THIS TOOK ME FOREVER. I meant to post this a lot sooner, buuuut&nbsp;homework got in the way. (How rude.)<br /><br />So I'm guessing you want to know who won?<br /><br /><b><i>No, they want to know what the weather is like on some uncharted island. Isn't it obvious?</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Um, pardon Lieutenant Bradshaw, everyone. He's competing for the title of Most Annoying Character Ever. I can't get him to shut up.<br /><br /><b><i>Says the one who writes novel-length posts about seemingly nothing important.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> *glares* Do you want me to finish your short story or not?<br /><br /><b><i>*arches one eyebrow* </i>Short <i>story?</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Very, <i>very </i>short story if you don't get out of here and stop interrupting me.<br /><br /><b><i>No need to get nasty, love. I'm just gracing your loyal subjects with my charming presence.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Uh-huh. Sure. :P<br /><br /><b><i>Farewell, everyone. Don't say I didn't warn you when you collapse of boredom at the halfway point of this post. *grins and ducks away*</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Good riddance. Now we can actually get to the point of this post.<br /><br />OKAY. Without further delay, I present to you the winner of my two-year blogoversary giveaway!!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsKhqkOrPUo/WnXrUpCpcSI/AAAAAAAAF_c/160gtqf__7kwO8WCW5eZl1lqnlbbXWW6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Blogoversary%2BWinner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xsKhqkOrPUo/WnXrUpCpcSI/AAAAAAAAF_c/160gtqf__7kwO8WCW5eZl1lqnlbbXWW6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Blogoversary%2BWinner.png" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">Olivia R.!</h4><div><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="653513232" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/653513232/" id="rcwidget_usvvt49c" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />Congrats, Olivia! We already interacted via email so I'll have your prize on the way soon!</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who entered. Seriously, I was blown away by the number of entries (over 300 o.o). I wish I could give everyone a prize! I'm rather addicted to giveaways so perhaps there will be another one soon. ;)<br /><br />I'm just overwhelmed by the amazing community of people I have met through blogging. <b>You guys are such a blessing. </b>Sunshine and Scribbling would not be the same without all you lovely peeps.<br /><br />Thanks for making these two years magical. &lt;3<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">THIS WAS SUCH A BLAST. I can't wait for next year's blogoversary&nbsp;already. xD Would you guys be interested in another giveaway sometime soon? (I mean, WHO WOULDN'T? Free stuff is always welcome.) Congrats again, Olivia!</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>P.S. Be on the lookout for a new post from me soon! I've got lots of ideas that I can't wait to share with you all.&nbsp;</div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-76860211084344480392018-01-28T21:35:00.002-05:002018-01-28T21:35:42.182-05:00Goals for 2 0 1 8 //<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIGLbYitIvM/Wm58RIkha2I/AAAAAAAAF-8/_5wEKILBuFklhyAzKvJypiIt8x27_3TsQCLcBGAs/s1600/goals%2Bfor%2B2018%2B__.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIGLbYitIvM/Wm58RIkha2I/AAAAAAAAF-8/_5wEKILBuFklhyAzKvJypiIt8x27_3TsQCLcBGAs/s1600/goals%2Bfor%2B2018%2B__.png" /></a></div><br /><b>WELL, LOOK WHO IS INSANELY LATE TO THE PARTY?? </b>We're already almost one-twelfth of the way through the year <span style="font-size: x-small;">(you're welcome for that heart attack)</span> and here I am <i>finally </i>posting my goals for 2018.<br /><br />Um .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. yeah. So I should have&nbsp;had this up like a month ago? BUT WE'RE GOING TO IGNORE THAT FACT. Obviously, my reasons for not doing this sooner (procrastination&nbsp;+ life) are completely valid. (I see you rolling your eyes .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. DON'T DOUBT ME.)<br /><br />Believe it or not, this is actually the <i>abbreviated </i>list of my goals. Ermm .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. I might have a slight addiction to goal-setting? I leave that up to you to decide.<br /><br />All right. Let's get this show on the road! (Don't you love it when I use trite sayings? I'm so very entertaining.)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G558j72zbMI/Wm59Yy2u_oI/AAAAAAAAF_E/l09MQMX-zjI_beEvEPobALRj_LZh5qqrACLcBGAs/s1600/Goals%2Bfor%2B2018%2Bdesign%2Bheader%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G558j72zbMI/Wm59Yy2u_oI/AAAAAAAAF_E/l09MQMX-zjI_beEvEPobALRj_LZh5qqrACLcBGAs/s1600/Goals%2Bfor%2B2018%2Bdesign%2Bheader%2B%25281%2529.png" /></a></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: TRAVEL OUTSIDE THE COUNTRY ::</h2><br />GUUUUUYYYSSSS. I've been wanting to do this basically since I was the size of a hobbit. THIS IS ONE OF MY BIGGEST DREAMS. I've wanted to travel to another country for <i>so long. </i>And .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. it might be a reality this year.<br /><br />We aren't entirely sure when/where we're going, but my family and I are&nbsp;making rather nebulous plans to travel to Europe this summer. <b>AND I'M SO. FREAKING. EXCITED. </b>My absolute TOP travel dream is to visit New Zealand, and I'm still holding out for that one day. But for now, Europe is sounding pretty darn exciting. ;)<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: GO TO REALM MAKERS ::</h2><br />More traveling, yes indeed. I'm about 80% sure this is going to happen. <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/09/realm-makers-2017-recap.html" target="_blank">I went last year,</a> and it ended up being one of the most phenomenal weekends of my short existence. Since it's actually more affordable this year, I'm pretty certain it's going to be a thing. <b>I just can't wait to reunite with people and meet some of my friends for the VERY first time. </b>And of course, there will be SO MUCH opportunity to learn and grow my writing craft. I took so many notes last year, and am hoping to come back with even more knowledge if I go this time!<br /><br />(Plus, Wayne Thomas Batson will be there. Soooooooo .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. *thumbs up*)<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: GRADUATE&nbsp;+ SURVIVE MY FIRST SEMESTER OF :: COLLEGE&nbsp;</h2><br />This one honestly terrifies me. To be clear, I've been doing online classes for the past couple years as a dual-enrolled student. But this year .&nbsp;.&nbsp;. it's going to be so different.<br /><br />I have a lot of news to share with you guys about college (the post is coming soon, I promise), but I will tell you this: <b>I'm leaving home for college.</b><br /><b><br /></b> And it's scaring me. <i>A lot.</i><br /><i><br /></i> I know it's going to be SO GOOD for me, and this is honestly what I feel called to do . . . but it's going to be a nerve-wracking adjustment. I'm excited about it, for sure. But very, <i>very </i>uncertain and nervous.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: READ 90-100 BOOKS ::</h2><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>OKAY THIS IS ALSO A LITTLE INTIMIDATING. I've neverrrrr set a goal this high for reading, but I think I might be able to do it. (Maybe.)<br /><br />I read 52 books in 2016, 85 in 2017, and hopefully 100 this year. We shall see. *nervous grin*<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: GET A DRIVER'S LICENSE ::</h2><br />Oh, lookie here - another terrifying goal! *cough* xD<br /><br />I'm just going to awkwardly announce that I don't have my license yet. I got my permit last year but have since only driven once (and nearly plowed into the curb . . . great start, Mary). <b>This year, I'm going to make a point of practicing my driving and working towards that license.</b> I don't know if I'll actually end up with my license, but I'd like to get it before I leave for college. I won't have a car there . . . but still. It would be rather nice to be a more proficient driver, methinks.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: KEEP A BULLET JOURNAL ::</h2><div><br /></div>I've already started this, and <b>it's basically my favorite thing this side of Pluto. </b>I love that it keeps me both organized AND creative at the same time. Win-win!<br /><br />Would anyone be interested in seeing a post about my bujo? I might do one now near the beginning of the year, and then another one at the end of 2018.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: EDIT BEHIND THE VELVET CURTAIN&nbsp;+ FINISH THE :: SCENT OF THE SUN&nbsp;</h2><div><br /></div>This is just a fraction of the writing projects I'd like to get done, but they're my top priorities for this year. I'd like to refine BTVC a lot more, fix some gaping plot holes, tidy up the characters/writing/setting . . . basically make it legible. xD I've actually NEVER edited one of my stories before (I knowwww, shameful) so it will be a new, albeit unappealing, task for me. I kind of love/hate the idea of editing. Mostly hate. But it has to be done. :P<br /><br />I'd also like to at least finish the first draft of TSOTS this year and maaaaybe get started on edits. I have over 61k written but kind of dropped it back in May once Camp NaNo was over. #oops<br /><br />SO YES. <b>I'd like to focus on more quality versus quantity with my writing this year.</b> I want what I write to be worth the time and effort. That's not to say I won't get a crazy hair and write like an insane person again . . . because let's face it, that happens every year. xD<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: DO NANO ::</h2><br />Yeahhhhhh. No clue if this is even feasible, what with me going off to college this fall. But chances are, I won't be able to resist. LIKE SERIOUSLY. I <i>can't </i>resist the all-consuming call of NaNo. It's impossible.<b> I'll probably end up squeezing it in amidst all my homework and becoming a sleep-deprived squirrel.</b> (Maybe this is when I'll learn to like coffee?? WHO CAN SAY.)<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: READ THROUGH THE NEW TESTAMENT ::</h2><br />This is a VERY important goal for me. <b>I'm really trying to make God my central priority this year. </b>And . . . it's kind of happening. But it's easy for me to miss my devotions on mornings when I'm in a hurry or sleep through my alarm (ummmm this never happens, why do you ask?). However, I am <i>determined&nbsp;</i>to accomplish this goal in 2018! My previous goals of trying to read the entire Bible in one year overwhelmed me too much and honestly didn't leave me enough time for my journaling/reflection/prayer time. <b>And I don't just want to READ the Bible - I want to MEDITATE on it.</b><br /><br />It's not a "normal" book; it's God's Word. I'm going to try to spend more time diving into it and taking what I read to heart.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: SEEK CONSISTENCY&nbsp;+ AUTHENTICITY ::</h2><br />Consistency is really hard for me. SO HARD. You can tell by my sporadic blog posts, lack of interaction with commenters, and my aforementioned skipped devotions. I just have a hard time being consistent, but I want to change that. I really, really do.<br /><br />Another thing which doesn't come easy for me is authenticity. <b>It's hard to be vulnerable. </b>But I <i>want </i>to be real with you guys and with the people around me. That's when growth comes, ultimately - when you let yourself embrace authenticity.<br /><br />If you follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesunnyscribbler/" target="_blank">me on Instagram</a>, you might have seen that I started a vulnerability series on my stories. I hope to really open up about my struggles and passions and insecurities. Show you the "boring" things in my life that make up the everyday.<br /><br /><b>In short, I want it to be a year of growth. And for me, that starts with consistency&nbsp;+ authenticity.</b><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: LEARN TO SWING DANCE ::</h2><br />Dancing is something I've aspired to learn but just . . . haven't. I might end up being a miserable failure, but hey, WHO CARES?? It will be a fun experience, and I get to dress vintage. I honestly see nothing to lose here. :P<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: READ MORE CLASSICS +&nbsp;NONFICTION ::</h2><br />Fact #1: 95.74% of my reading consists of fiction.<br /><br />Fact #2: 95.74% of that fiction is NOT made up of classics.<br /><br />To be clear, I love classics. I really do. There are some absolutely fantastic classics out there, but I just haven't read a ton of them. IT'S HORRIBLE, I KNOW. I guess they're just so time-consuming that I have a hard time getting myself to start them. *shrugs*<br /><br />BUT in 2018, I'm going to <i>try </i>to read a classic a month. <b>And I'm hoping to finish all the Jane Austen novels this year, as well.&nbsp;</b><br /><b><br /></b> I'd also really like to read more nonfiction since <b>my reading diet needs to have more balance.</b> I'm open for recommendations if anyone has any! (Preferably writing books or Christian living - that's the kind of nonfic I'm most interested in.)<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: FIND A GOOD BLOGGING SCHEDULE&nbsp;+ INTERACT :: MORE IN COMMENTS</h2><br />I don't know what the future holds for my blogs - because like I've said 1,459 times I'M GOING TO COLLEGE. College is time-consuming. <i>Very </i>time-consuming.<br /><br />I might not post every week. I might make my posts shorter. I DON'T KNOW. <b>But I'm really hoping to come up with a loose schedule for this year so blogging can still be a part of my life.</b> There's no way I'm leaving so DON'T GET YOUR HOPES UP. :P Maybe I'll plan ahead during the summer so I have some posts pre-made for the semester. *shrugs*<br /><br />Regardless, I'm going to TRY to find a good blogging schedule and interact with you all in the comments more regularly. I'm not promising to answer all the comments (or even get caught up on ones I missed . . . SORRY) because that's a lot of time I don't have. However, I'll do my best - that's all I can promise. ;)<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: EXERCISE MORE ::</h2><br /><br />Um. Yeah. Being a writer and online student makes for waaaaay more computer time than I would like. Thus, exercise is Not a Thing that occurs much in my life. (DON'T JUDGE. :P)<br /><br />I've already started going on walks more this year and it's something I'd like to do more, while the weather is actually not blazing hot. Eating healthy is actually not too hard for me, but I have a harder time exercising regularly. <b>Hopefully this year will bring about a healthier balance of time at/away from the computer.</b><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;"><br /></h2><h2 style="text-align: center;">:: STRETCH MYSELF CREATIVELY ::</h2><div><br /></div>I want to push out of my comfort zones and create with intentional exploration. Let it be a year where my creative skills are redefined and changed for the better.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diHrC2-vQRY/Wm5z2gOYf7I/AAAAAAAAF-s/DIfHN5Ubyt8CWhlJ0eCw2JWIwy_mg8y8ACLcBGAs/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-diHrC2-vQRY/Wm5z2gOYf7I/AAAAAAAAF-s/DIfHN5Ubyt8CWhlJ0eCw2JWIwy_mg8y8ACLcBGAs/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering%2B%25281%2529.png" /></a></div><b>This is honestly the first year I've been afraid of. </b>Usually, I'm excited, nostalgic, and in shock because of how fast time goes . . . but I've never honestly looked toward a new year with so much fear and uncertainty.<br /><br />It's a big year for me. As you can see by my (*cough* lengthy *COUGH*) list of goals, I have a lot going on. (I mean, I pretty much always do . . . but it's more than normal. :P)<br /><br />I'm leaving home for the first time this year - and I'm scared. There's <i>sooooooo </i>much doubt and uncertainty shrouding my future, so 2018 has me wanting to hide in my hobbit hole for all eternity.<br /><b><br /></b><b>That's why my word for 2018 is TRUST. </b>I want to turn that fear into trust and let God make me fearless. This year is frightening and different, yes - but it's also exciting and full of possibility.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here's to a new adventure; <b>hello, 2 0 1 8.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b>Well, there's my not-at-all-late 2018 goals post. *whistles innocently* Tell me: what are some of YOUR goals for 2018? Are you planning on traveling anywhere this year? (Realm Makers, perhaps???)</b></h4><b><br /></b><b>P.S. You only have TWO DAYS to enter my blogoversary giveaway! Link to my post is right <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-two-year-blogoversary-giveaway-new.html" target="_blank">heeeeeere</a>.&nbsp;</b>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-4254502048148837902018-01-18T00:00:00.000-05:002018-01-18T00:00:56.012-05:00My TWO-YEAR Blogoversary!! // Giveaway + NEW Blog Design<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GmSzfSVODtQ/Wl-UdLWlC6I/AAAAAAAAF9I/NHdQ-M-oKWs3sWoJMfxCFs_8ZJmqpIBZgCLcBGAs/s1600/My%2BTwo-Year%2BBlogoversary%2BBLOG%2BGRAPHIC.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GmSzfSVODtQ/Wl-UdLWlC6I/AAAAAAAAF9I/NHdQ-M-oKWs3sWoJMfxCFs_8ZJmqpIBZgCLcBGAs/s1600/My%2BTwo-Year%2BBlogoversary%2BBLOG%2BGRAPHIC.png" /></a></div><br />*jumps into the room in an explosion of glitter* GUYYSSSSSS. You know what Monday was??<br /><div><br /></div><div>You are correct if you said January 15th. But you're even more correct if you said it was my TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF SUNSHINE AND SCRIBBLINGS!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I honestly can't believe it. <i>Two years have passed. </i>Starting a blog was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Through it, I've experienced a tremendous amount of growth - as a writer, reader, creative soul, and a child of God.</div><div><br /></div><div>But by far my BIGGEST blessing is <i>you guys. </i><b>I have the best community of people in the world. </b>Like, I sometimes just stop and say "WOW I AM SO BLESSED." I have been given such a supportive, loving, and encouraging group of friends who honestly make me a better human. You got me through some of the toughest times of my life last year. You actually take the time to read my&nbsp;monstrous posts. You leave the sweetest, most uplifting comments. You've made me grin at my screen like an idiot and have moved me to tears by your words.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't imagine my life without you all. So <i>thank you, my friends. </i>Whether you've been following me since day one or you just found my blog yesterday...<b>thank you for coming along with me on this journey. </b>Seriously, I love you people so much.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KhPO0mNBCvo/WmAi5DAxopI/AAAAAAAAF-I/lERkjeb-8DQB1jsZr3WwnJGozB2rqh_AwCLcBGAs/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KhPO0mNBCvo/WmAi5DAxopI/AAAAAAAAF-I/lERkjeb-8DQB1jsZr3WwnJGozB2rqh_AwCLcBGAs/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering.png" /></a></div><b>OKAY SO LET'S ADDRESS THE STYLISH ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM.</b> Sunshine and Scribblings has received a significant makeover and <i>I'm all the happiness.</i><br /><br />My dear blog has been in need of a more professional/functional/adorable design for a LONG time, and I finally bit the bullet and redesigned it. I had to make my blog private while I gave it some TLC so apologies to anyone who received a heart attack when they weren't able to access it. xD<br /><br />I thought this would be a good surprise to unveil for my blogoversary. It felt fitting, to usher in a new design today. (But gosh, NO PRESSURE THOUGH. Not at alllll. :P)<br /><br />It took nearly TWO DAYS, much screaming, terrifying HTML and CSS things, and motivational ice cream <b>BUT IT'S DONE.</b> I'm so proud of it and am actually pretty obsessed, not gonna lie. (I even figured out all the coding stuff for the navigation bar by myself and <i>gosshhh, look at me being professional. </i>*awkwardly&nbsp;highfives myself*)<br /><br />So...what do you think?? Do you like it? I'm a little sad to see the old look gone (because #nostalgia), but I love this way more. <b>It's very clean and minimalistic, and it feels like a good expression of my personality.</b> It's not 100% done - I have a few minor things to tweak, like adding a "Contact" page link - but I've got most of it finished. I JUST CAN'T BELIEVE IT AHHHHH *hugs blog*<br /><br /><b>HONEST OPINIONS: what do you think?&nbsp;</b><br /><br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-fFuP5A12w/Wl-CoqRqtLI/AAAAAAAAF84/pWwlPlii8lQaKyHIfyXa1UdXqNTzMgW9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Giveaway%2BLettering.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-fFuP5A12w/Wl-CoqRqtLI/AAAAAAAAF84/pWwlPlii8lQaKyHIfyXa1UdXqNTzMgW9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Giveaway%2BLettering.png" /></a></div>I spontaneously decided (like, today) that I would host a&nbsp;giveaway. Because,&nbsp;uh, I can't resist. I LOVE GIVEAWAYS.<br /><br /><b>I made three different quote bookmarks which ONE lucky winner will receive.</b> It's for US residents only (SORRY DEAR INTERNATIONAL FRIENDS *hugs*) because I'm a poor student. Please forgive any mistakes I made. I've been so busy lately and probably rushed them a bit too much. Oops. xD<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_S_Uxva1jpk/WmAhDJsrBkI/AAAAAAAAF9g/D7mndmhKwsglWdLLkJ1umQgL232G8qtPwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_S_Uxva1jpk/WmAhDJsrBkI/AAAAAAAAF9g/D7mndmhKwsglWdLLkJ1umQgL232G8qtPwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0579.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LRfv9-UI-Gc/WmAh-VUaB4I/AAAAAAAAF9w/WikJeIV8G8ofytQStHFGMBTGRTJmrf9ygCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LRfv9-UI-Gc/WmAh-VUaB4I/AAAAAAAAF9w/WikJeIV8G8ofytQStHFGMBTGRTJmrf9ygCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0590.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QXFjlGqzX4E/WmAhb6-KECI/AAAAAAAAF9k/-hK3FqhPx6s3Sw-vH8JMUVe39S9JHicKACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QXFjlGqzX4E/WmAhb6-KECI/AAAAAAAAF9k/-hK3FqhPx6s3Sw-vH8JMUVe39S9JHicKACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0583.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2N84sg3c_s/WmAiFAwjuZI/AAAAAAAAF94/HC0YzYZUA0Ub4NxigH2aK53dALoUqSfmwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2N84sg3c_s/WmAiFAwjuZI/AAAAAAAAF94/HC0YzYZUA0Ub4NxigH2aK53dALoUqSfmwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0593.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sqdw9jtEJus/WmAhf0NkEUI/AAAAAAAAF9o/WcLmswZlK84iwpAxBZfMHKq9HUcdbBthQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sqdw9jtEJus/WmAhf0NkEUI/AAAAAAAAF9o/WcLmswZlK84iwpAxBZfMHKq9HUcdbBthQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0588.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5gSjlPfaS4o/WmAiKww56bI/AAAAAAAAF98/jJ_B-41sn88ixeFNQgCMvvbNMJCxYAFLgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5gSjlPfaS4o/WmAiKww56bI/AAAAAAAAF98/jJ_B-41sn88ixeFNQgCMvvbNMJCxYAFLgCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0598.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />If you would like to win these, be sure to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below! The giveaway runs from today until January 31st.<br /><br />"I wish you all the luck in the world."<br /><br /></div><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="653513232" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/653513232/" id="rcwidget_23fpj49r" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjzd0iNQXA4/WmAk6_Up6gI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/q6XSqh0_ymsNvm3yF4YIbcWAIu2jtZnxACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjzd0iNQXA4/WmAk6_Up6gI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/q6XSqh0_ymsNvm3yF4YIbcWAIu2jtZnxACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/NEW%2BDesign%2BLettering%2B%25281%2529.png" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">MY BLOG IS TWO YEARS OLD!!! Can you believe it? It wouldn't be here without you lovely people. &lt;3 What do you think of the new blog design? Are you going to enter the giveaway? (YOU SHOUUULD.)&nbsp; Let's celebrate together! *romps in glitter*</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-66943345533102173012018-01-14T17:04:00.001-05:002018-01-15T23:38:38.403-05:00Farewell, 2 0 1 7 // YEAR RECAP<div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6a1Xfdd75dQ/WlvSVHFLrSI/AAAAAAAAF7M/nzom30JnSm8z6iJjQQzRfss5ezjSo-F4QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/farewell%252C%2B2%2B0%2B1%2B7%2B%25252F%25252F%2Byear%2Brecap.png"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6a1Xfdd75dQ/WlvSVHFLrSI/AAAAAAAAF7M/nzom30JnSm8z6iJjQQzRfss5ezjSo-F4QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/farewell%252C%2B2%2B0%2B1%2B7%2B%25252F%25252F%2Byear%2Brecap.png" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b> <b>2017 is gone.</b><br /><div><br /></div><div>It was a year of joy. Pain. Discovery. Loss.</div><div><br /></div><div>But above all, it was a year of exploration. <b>I'm a different person now than I was a year ago. </b>That's just incredible to me, that the span of 365 days can CHANGE me. I explored so much in 2017. In writing, in music, in art, in reading...</div><div><br /></div><div>But also who I was as a person. This was a&nbsp;hard year, guys. I'm not going to pretend otherwise. You saw some of that pain, but some of it, I've hidden inside. I hit a bout of depression this summer. I think I was the saddest I've ever felt this summer, honestly, but it was also one of the most memorable, life-changing summers I've had. <b>I wouldn't change it.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>I've realized more and more as I grow older that <b>the ugliest messes produce the most beauty. </b>We're refined, perfected, grown, shaped. In the midst of the fire, we're blinded. But once we emerge from the flames, we can find clarity. There's beauty in brokenness. In trusting Someone else who can see what we cannot.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm rambling here, but I don't know what to say except that <b>I'm so grateful for life in all its messy, hurting, lovely, vibrant existence. </b>2017 was hard, yes; but I'm not regretful at all. God made me stronger through it. <i>I grew so much. </i>There were so many good moments last year. I can laugh and smile and thank God for all my blessings. He is so faithful.</div><div><br /></div><div>So...specifics? Let's get into those. :)</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">:: 2 0 1 7 ::</h4><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Books //</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Stats:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Total books - 85</div><div><br /></div><div>Total pages - 24,975 (ughhh so close to 25,000. I'm dissatisfied xD)</div><div><br /></div><div>Shortest book - 9 pages (Red Boots by Kate Willis; it was an absolutely darling short story)</div><div><br /></div><div>Longest book - 777 pages (my MASSIVE tome of Little Women; lovely book)</div><div><br /></div><div>Average length - 294 pages</div><div><br /></div><div>Average rating - 4.1 stars (surprising, since I read a decent amount of "meh" books last year)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Top Five Favorites:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>*is physically in pain right now* OKAY so if I haaaad to narrow it down...&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16137649-chasing-jupiter" target="_blank">Chasing Jupiter</a>&nbsp;//</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuEJm9DXYzs/WlrelApp7dI/AAAAAAAAF6I/dX_0GLWhYyAWxsK2GyTnKt8y7fXxZ-eqACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Chasing%2BJupiter%2Bcover.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuEJm9DXYzs/WlrelApp7dI/AAAAAAAAF6I/dX_0GLWhYyAWxsK2GyTnKt8y7fXxZ-eqACK4BGAYYCw/s320/Chasing%2BJupiter%2Bcover.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32497002-a-name-unknown" target="_blank">A Name Unknown</a>&nbsp;//</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V093LP8vqNQ/Wlrer84PqZI/AAAAAAAAF6M/PBeRabVNXbYGllNpd7PHx8loF0-ou2XYgCLcBGAs/s1600/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V093LP8vqNQ/Wlrer84PqZI/AAAAAAAAF6M/PBeRabVNXbYGllNpd7PHx8loF0-ou2XYgCLcBGAs/s320/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27261345-the-lady-and-the-lionheart?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Lady and the Lionheart</a>&nbsp;//</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY0tMw4JL3A/Wlrf4QD2TlI/AAAAAAAAF6c/LhS33JKUhesAsIOiOdEDkc3B9QUplmvLQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/the%2Blady%2Band%2Bthe%2Blionheart.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY0tMw4JL3A/Wlrf4QD2TlI/AAAAAAAAF6c/LhS33JKUhesAsIOiOdEDkc3B9QUplmvLQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/the%2Blady%2Band%2Bthe%2Blionheart.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20893527-anne-of-green-gables" target="_blank">Anne of Green Gables</a> //</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ea3SMV8bCgk/WlrggTVBeLI/AAAAAAAAF6k/MBnkQJ8QJ-sHRSeOzjKDtguqjV23Ae4hACLcBGAs/s1600/Anne%2Bof%2BGreen%2BGables%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="286" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ea3SMV8bCgk/WlrggTVBeLI/AAAAAAAAF6k/MBnkQJ8QJ-sHRSeOzjKDtguqjV23Ae4hACLcBGAs/s320/Anne%2Bof%2BGreen%2BGables%2BCover.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30259030-a-note-yet-unsung" target="_blank">A Note Yet Unsung</a> //</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PJHN048_Cz0/Wlrgw5Xr2QI/AAAAAAAAF6o/ZmdvXulPkbQ2btqSv_MngmDU_OTnbV0kgCLcBGAs/s1600/A%2BNote%2BYet%2BUnsung%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PJHN048_Cz0/Wlrgw5Xr2QI/AAAAAAAAF6o/ZmdvXulPkbQ2btqSv_MngmDU_OTnbV0kgCLcBGAs/s320/A%2BNote%2BYet%2BUnsung%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>Runners-up</b></i>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23547388-this-quiet-sky" target="_blank">This Quiet Sky</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/378.The_Phantom_Tollbooth" target="_blank">The Phantom Tollbooth</a>,<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25873284-to-get-to-you" target="_blank"> To Get to You</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22024488-a-night-divided" target="_blank">A Night Divided</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33387751-the-reluctant-godfather" target="_blank">The Reluctant Godfather</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25152641-the-key-to-extraordinary" target="_blank">The Key to Extraordinary</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Despite the fact that I read more "okay" books than usual...I actually discovered some of my favorite books of all time. No kidding. You guys need to check out all of the books listed above. THAT'S AN ORDER. ;)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Top Five Least Favorites:</b><br /><b><br /></b> My top (bottom?) least favorites were all 2.5 stars or less. I guess it's just natural that the more books I read, the more books I'll discover that I don't like. Darn it. xD</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12873027-princess-of-the-silver-woods" target="_blank">Princess of the Silver Woods</a> //&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1397879349l/12873027.jpg" width="209" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28449231-unblemished" target="_blank">Unblemished </a>//</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Unblemished by Sara Ella" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1457446140l/28449231.jpg" width="210" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17657649-dear-mr-knightley" target="_blank"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17657649-dear-mr-knightley" target="_blank">Dear Mr. Knightley</a> //</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1364231994l/17657649.jpg" width="211" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19332663-the-ryn" target="_blank"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19332663-the-ryn" target="_blank">The Ryn</a> //</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Ryn by Serena Chase" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1417620906l/19332663.jpg" width="211" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11756117-moonblood" target="_blank">Moonblood </a>//</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Moonblood by Anne Elisabeth Stengl" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1348748404l/11756117.jpg" width="207" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>Runner-ups:</i> </b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29340787-nyssa-glass-and-the-house-of-mirrors" target="_blank">Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125956.Black" target="_blank">Black</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12820360-edenbrooke" target="_blank">Edenbrooke</a>, all my college textbooks :P<br /><br /><br /><b>New Authors:</b><br /><b><br /></b> Some favorite authors I've discovered this year are Joanne Bischof, Kristy Cambron, Natalie Lloyd, and Roseanna M. White. (Most of them are actually historical fiction writers...apparently that's one of my new favorite genres.)<br /><br /><b>Top Five Favorite Covers:</b><br /><b><br /></b> CUE MY SHALLOW BOOKDRAGON SELF MAKING AN APPEARANCE. I just <i>really </i>love beautiful covers, guys. I can't help it. xD<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HRPRePRb-E/Wlu2wMwkAMI/AAAAAAAAF64/nKjfIhPte1EVAWOXZcaKCPBSOP5MNurGgCLcBGAs/s1600/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HRPRePRb-E/Wlu2wMwkAMI/AAAAAAAAF64/nKjfIhPte1EVAWOXZcaKCPBSOP5MNurGgCLcBGAs/s320/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Girl Who Could See by Kara Swanson" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1489116685l/34094813.jpg" width="207" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanne Bischof" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1469138538l/27261345.jpg" width="207" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="The Butterfly and the Violin by Kristy Cambron" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1384879230l/18850688.jpg" width="209" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="A Note Yet Unsung by Tamera Alexander" height="320" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1465595304l/30259030.jpg" width="206" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*awkward cough as I realize most of these were in my favorite books section* What can I say, these books are all fantastic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Writing //</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a much different year for writing. I think I wrote around 150k? (Who knows at this point? xD) It was a year defined by testing my limits, breaking past self-imposed boundaries, and experimenting with different techniques. <b>It was a year of exploration.</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I participated in ALL THE NANO EVENTS.</b> Camp NaNo April (50k), Camp NaNo July (10k), and regular NaNo in November (50k). How this even happened is a mystery, but I'm glad it did. It was one of my New Years resolutions, actually. I doubt I'll be able to do all three this year, but who can say? I can't seem to resist the phantom call of NaNo. :P</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I wrote over 65k of The Scent of the Sun, my heartfelt contemporary fantasy novel.</b> (I CAN'T DESCRIBE IT. )</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I wrote my steampunk short story, Along the Lines of Lawbreaking, and started a sequel.</b> (Have I mentioned the sequel? If not, SURPRISE!! *grins*)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I wrote my entire 33k novella, Behind the Velvet Curtain.</b> It's a Snow White retelling set in a steampunk/Victorian setting. Again, my novels have the tendency of being indescribable...ahem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I wrote over 15k of my futuristic fantasy novel Vagrant Embers. </b>It has big families, murder plots, conspiracies, and snark. (Always snark.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I tried my hand at poetry.</b> The end of the year brought with it a total of around 10 free-verse poems. If you're interested, a bunch of them are on <a href="http://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/">my other blog.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">SO YES. This was an exciting year for me writing-wise! I, uh, started more projects than I finished...but that's okay...right? *nervous chuckle* Getting to play around with different writing styles, characters, settings, etc. was a really great experience. The thing I took away in 2017 for my writing was to <b>write bravely. </b>Don't be afraid to write the crazy, far-fetched dreams that peck at your brain. Those are the stories worth telling and worth all the struggles that come&nbsp;along with it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Life //</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">LOTS OF THINGS HAPPENED. I'll just give a summary because otherwise we'll be here all day.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I did SO MANY "adult" things.</b> First time driving, first debit card, first job, college classes...goodness, I feel like I aged significantly in 2017.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I saw the world.</b> Granted, I didn't leave the country (hopefully that will change soon!) but I got to travel and see more of the world and it was lovely. &lt;3 I took several road trips, visited California and Arizona (my childhood home), went back to my <i>heart's </i>home (Virginia), saw the Smoky Mountains, and went to Nevada and Lake Tahoe. Travel makes my heart happy.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I went to my first writing conference and met blogging friends.</b> This was...such a fantastic experience. It will go down in history as one of my favorite trips. <i>Ever. </i>I can't even put into words how much I loved <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/09/realm-makers-2017-recap.html" target="_blank">attending Realm Makers</a> and meeting my dear friends for the first time. &lt;3</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I had a lot of struggles.</b> Emotionally, this was a hard year. Like I said earlier, I'm not bitter or depressed about it...just being honest. <b>It was hard. </b>I DID struggle with depression and heartache and loss. I DID feel insignificant and selfish and stressed. My feelings were very real and poignant and <i>raw. </i>There were a lot of valleys. <b>But ultimately I'm stronger for it. </b>I had an incredible, life-changing event happen while visiting my dream school. (Still need to post about that!!) I witnessed the miraculous healing power of God. I grew closer to my Savior and was free to explore more about who I was meant to be. <b>It was a year I'll never forget, for all its flawed beauty.</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /&nbsp;</b></span></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">To sum it all up: 2017 was an unforgettable, life-changing, difficult year full of exploring and growth. Every part of my life was changed as I discovered&nbsp;+ explored. I didn't even get to touch on music, art, and photography...but needless to say, <b>my whole life was impacted last year.</b><br /><b><br /></b> I'm ever so grateful to have you all along with me on this journey. Thank you for bearing with all my emotional braindumps, lack of communication, and spontaneous hiatuses. I will hopefully have a post or two up sometime this week as I try to get back into the swing of blogging. :)<br /><br />YOU ALL MEAN THE WORLD TO ME. Let's create some beautiful things in 2018.<br /><br />With all my love,<br /><i><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Mary</b></span></i><br /><br /><i>P.S. This is my 100th post!! I'm in shock right now.&nbsp;</i></div></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-47810265132415964022017-12-20T19:48:00.000-05:002017-12-20T19:48:19.938-05:00Christmastime is Here // feat. Me as a Christmas-Obsessed Elf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jGzqQyxLv8/WjsD1Byk6AI/AAAAAAAAF4s/Qc4OGTD3TDoVXAw4LbBrC_X4oj693yHtgCLcBGAs/s1600/christmastime%2Bis%2Bhere%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfeat.%2Bme%2Bas%2Ba%2Bchristmas-obsessed%2Belf2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jGzqQyxLv8/WjsD1Byk6AI/AAAAAAAAF4s/Qc4OGTD3TDoVXAw4LbBrC_X4oj693yHtgCLcBGAs/s1600/christmastime%2Bis%2Bhere%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfeat.%2Bme%2Bas%2Ba%2Bchristmas-obsessed%2Belf2.png" /></a></div><br />*frolics through imaginary snowdrifts*<br /><br />Christmastimeeeeee is hereeeeee!!!<br /><br />HAPPINESSSSSS AND CHEEEEER!!!<br /><br /><b><i>My ears are bleeding. What was that horrific noise??</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Ah, if it isn't Mr. Scrooge himself.<br /><br /><b><i>Lieutenant Bradshaw, love. Get your names straight.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> -_-<br /><br /><b><i>Well, don't let me interrupt your idiotic caterwauling. I'm sure everyone else is </i>dying <i>to hear it.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> You're the only person I know who can ruin Christmas songs.<br /><br /><b><i>I'm pretty sure that was you, unless that was just your cat being strangled.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> I hope you get nothing but lumps of coal in your stocking.<br /><br /><b><i>How perfect! Then I have something to throw at you.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> *glares* Okay, just shut up so I can get on with this post.<br /><br /><b><i>No need to be rude, love. Just trying to help you correct your faults.</i></b><br /><br />Get. Out.<br /><br /><b><i>*grins and backs away*</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Ahem. Yes. As you all have probably been reminded about 1,357 times, CHRISTMAS IS COMING AND FAST. Like it's apparently only 5 days away?? O_o (help)<br /><br />As unprepared as I am for its arrival, I am also just LOVING everything about this time of year. I decided instead of apologizing (AGAIN) for not posting in a while that I would make it up to you with some fun Christmas-y things! Because <i>duh, Christmas.</i><br /><i><br /></i> A couple brief updates before I begin this. First off: I'M ON WINTER BREAK!!!!!! It feels so wonderful to be done with my college classes, even though I haven't been posting as much as I would like. (Aka NOT AT ALL. *cries*) It's been really busy here - I can't imagine doing all this with school on top of it.<br /><br />Secondly: I have decided not to do the Rooglewood Press contest for reasons which I will hopefully discuss at a later date. Mostly, it was just stressing me out and I realllllly didn't need that at Christmastime.<br /><br />Thirdly (and lastly!): I got my first smartphone! That may seem weird to most people since the majority of people my age have had one for years. xD But you know what, I'm fine with that. It's exciting to have one, but there wasn't really much of a need for one until recently. SO YES. It's a fun bit of news, for sure, and I'm having fun trying out my new gadget. ;)<br /><br />NOW. I'm finally done rambling. *puts duct tape over mouth*<br /><i><br /></i><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">&nbsp;M O V I E S</span></b></div><b><br /></b> I'm going to just recommend some movies that basically everyone needs to watch. I LOVE CHRISTMAS MOVIES SO MUCH, GUYS. &lt;33<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>It's A Wonderful Life</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VisCekMgzmY/Wjrn_VXbzqI/AAAAAAAAF2g/MqGB0cRBmCIxgFnG5M-v45DoNhugWEezQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/9d14921d7826ba55646e91e2b26373c8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VisCekMgzmY/Wjrn_VXbzqI/AAAAAAAAF2g/MqGB0cRBmCIxgFnG5M-v45DoNhugWEezQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/9d14921d7826ba55646e91e2b26373c8.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/2744449746465142/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Oh my goodness, YES. This is my all-time favorite Christmas movie. It's got Jimmy Stewart (not that I like him at all - nope xD) and fun characters and a touching storyline. It makes me cry. Every time. We watch it every year on Christmas Eve so I'm just like a teary mess at the end of it. *cough*<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>The Man Who Invented Christmas</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H3Uj67nUF5o/WjrowbCAj_I/AAAAAAAAF2s/eFrpxvNgIgk5Qz2o_Sn6odM6ShRLU3lBgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/ab353b70d222ecc60a35c7a73ae9cf01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H3Uj67nUF5o/WjrowbCAj_I/AAAAAAAAF2s/eFrpxvNgIgk5Qz2o_Sn6odM6ShRLU3lBgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/ab353b70d222ecc60a35c7a73ae9cf01.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/573434965047015440/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>So I just saw this in theaters last week and GOOD GRIEF. This movieeeeee!! It was pure brilliance. Again, fabulous acting (Dan Stevens, though &lt;3), hilarious characters, feelsy things, and just...brilliance. If you're a writer, you need to go see this. Right now. I was cracking up because I related hardcore to Charles Dickens while he was writing. xD<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>The Shop Around the Corner</b></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M1ml8SZkI_k/WjrpFrocjJI/AAAAAAAAF20/mqHK5YRU_78I8kZawxkRXi7GkvGLvkhzQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/5854e375aebae378552df5efd2e81637.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/565694403188008984/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>CUE ME FLAILING AGAIN ABOUT JIMMY STEWART. I'm sorryyyyy. I just can't help how much I love this actor. But this movie is a lot of fun and features some of the best insults and snarky remarks ever. I love it dearly.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>A Christmas Story</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xeGqvtkltfA/Wjrp5ZDckGI/AAAAAAAAF3A/_-WRgKvzCjwzPOhzD7fFZuCrjPoxcbwdQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/37faa50e19995bb989ea13985406e524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xeGqvtkltfA/Wjrp5ZDckGI/AAAAAAAAF3A/_-WRgKvzCjwzPOhzD7fFZuCrjPoxcbwdQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/37faa50e19995bb989ea13985406e524.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/132856257734955760/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>This one has some language in it, so we always watch an edited copy. However, other than the language, it's just a hilarious movie. Classic lines. Classic scenes. Classic leg lamps. :P<br /><br />"You'll shoot your eye out, kid."<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>Miracle on 34th Street</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2Y9vWGTIKM/WjrqZIGOPQI/AAAAAAAAF3M/NNT--89kShoxmUYAZB7Q8AYLj8-x1pbFQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/504798be6d216726ddc8c310a7743c1d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2Y9vWGTIKM/WjrqZIGOPQI/AAAAAAAAF3M/NNT--89kShoxmUYAZB7Q8AYLj8-x1pbFQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/504798be6d216726ddc8c310a7743c1d.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/464644886548521649/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br />&nbsp;</b>This is such a clever premise, and it's just an all-around <i>fun </i>movie. I don't know what else to say except <i>WATCH IT. </i>(Also, Kris and Susan have a darling relationship. Yes indeed.)<br /><i><br /></i><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>The Nativity Story</b></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPK3CQG3JnA/WjrsE0dTQ0I/AAAAAAAAF3Y/ct5-mr6IfGokwgemsa_MXKpnWsT6VIYowCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/50b9557a98c09a0196f16a93af5de2a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPK3CQG3JnA/WjrsE0dTQ0I/AAAAAAAAF3Y/ct5-mr6IfGokwgemsa_MXKpnWsT6VIYowCK4BGAYYCw/s320/50b9557a98c09a0196f16a93af5de2a1.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/241716704971499943/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I've only seen this twice, but it was such a beautiful portrayal of Christ's birth and I loved the acting. (Totally not because Joseph is played by Oscar Isaac...*grins*) It had such a great "feel" to the whole film. I don't know how else to describe it. &lt;3<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">// <b>Christmas in Connecticut</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SwcaZ2mLdAg/Wjrsey7p7wI/AAAAAAAAF3g/Hek8LQ_SlXkKI4Gn19ZQjOmd-CaEcYjUQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/1d3bccf3de222e0e518cc4cd78c43771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SwcaZ2mLdAg/Wjrsey7p7wI/AAAAAAAAF3g/Hek8LQ_SlXkKI4Gn19ZQjOmd-CaEcYjUQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/1d3bccf3de222e0e518cc4cd78c43771.jpg" width="254" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/178595941451254126/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Yep, another old one. I love classic, black-and-white films and I'm not even sorry. This one is super funny and lighthearted (the word "catastrophe" will never be the same to me), and it feels like a slice of Christmas magic.<br /><br /><b>// Honorable mentions:</b> Home Alone, The Santa Clause,&nbsp; Elf, The Bishop's Wife, Holiday Inn<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">M U S I C</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I compiled this playlist last year and am currently working on one for this year. Christmas music is like my FAVORITE THING IN EXISTENCE and it basically turns me into Buddy the elf when I listen to it.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/user/narniaqueen15/playlist/6cphNM44zWXNED6TGLuOnu" width="300"></iframe></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This one is just a work in progress, but I wanted to make something different this Christmas. So here you go. ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="380" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/user/narniaqueen15/playlist/0oc3zcCoH9upRkAbtISwpy" width="300"></iframe></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And for all of you who don't have Spotify...my sincerest condolences. *cough* I would include links to all of these on YouTube but I have cookies to bake and presents to wrap so nope, not happening. xD</div><br /> <b><span style="font-size: large;">F O O D</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Um, how about GIVE IT ALL TO MEEEE?! I will take all the Christmas treats, please and thank you.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">// <b>GINGERBREAD. </b>Oh, sweet glory...<i>gingerbread. </i>I even have this in my bio on <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my other blog</a> - I love it THAT much. It makes me think of Christmas and home and happy times. &lt;3</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">// <b>Snickerdoodles&nbsp;+ sugar cookies&nbsp;+ all the cookies. </b>I'm a self-proclaimed cookie addict. Christmastime is a dangerous time for me, friends.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e1WlfnKgbZY/Wjrw4EnCmlI/AAAAAAAAF3o/RHP0GL0TnpAeUdHwSgExgdCphIbuFZf7QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e1WlfnKgbZY/Wjrw4EnCmlI/AAAAAAAAF3o/RHP0GL0TnpAeUdHwSgExgdCphIbuFZf7QCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0611.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fbDQhaRiTx8/Wjrw9uiG76I/AAAAAAAAF3s/GY3R809_E24AxjzMoGDQP1OgrRAOWwC4wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fbDQhaRiTx8/Wjrw9uiG76I/AAAAAAAAF3s/GY3R809_E24AxjzMoGDQP1OgrRAOWwC4wCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0624.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">// <b>Hot cocoa&nbsp;+ eggnog. </b>Yummmm. These are technically drinks, but hey, close enough. It's just not Christmas without sipping a cup of cocoa by the tree or without a glass of cold eggnog for all you folks like me who live in a place that doesn't know what "December weather" is. :P<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2VDCYIySJxA/WjrxUUe8TyI/AAAAAAAAF3w/JmOFXdzbRN0hbHzJ4Jdynnp6wMvS-9bewCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2VDCYIySJxA/WjrxUUe8TyI/AAAAAAAAF3w/JmOFXdzbRN0hbHzJ4Jdynnp6wMvS-9bewCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">// <b>Coconut macaroons. </b>We make these chocolate-covered coconut macaroons every year, and <i>they are to die for. </i>So, so good.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">// <b>Homemade fudge. </b>It's kind of fabulous and extremely sugary. Like yes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">M O M E N T S</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">These are the things that make Christmas magical.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>flickering candles. the smell of cinnamon and pine. fresh-cut Christmas trees. twinkling lights. ice skating. baking with friends. piles of wrapping paper.&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjbZKabj5Y0/Wjrxp8g2uPI/AAAAAAAAF34/CSr5_1eH5AYNSlmE2Fw2Q-xU65c5l3zigCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DjbZKabj5Y0/Wjrxp8g2uPI/AAAAAAAAF34/CSr5_1eH5AYNSlmE2Fw2Q-xU65c5l3zigCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0646.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i>garlands. cozy sweaters. bright red bows. presents around the tree. homemade ornaments.&nbsp;</i><br /><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qf61HGvoeS4/WjryPQReR-I/AAAAAAAAF4E/qKHjsIEQjhsTBhbLmOGizACTZzvuHV7uwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qf61HGvoeS4/WjryPQReR-I/AAAAAAAAF4E/qKHjsIEQjhsTBhbLmOGizACTZzvuHV7uwCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0813.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i>candlelight Christmas Eve service. It's a Wonderful Life. Bing Crosby. gingerbread houses. black and white films. roaring fireplaces. wreaths on doors. holiday cards.</i><br /><i><br /></i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyA4b646wKM/WjrzPlDGDYI/AAAAAAAAF4M/dEinWxmZPQMShejWz6-AXUn1BOv4PkzygCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyA4b646wKM/WjrzPlDGDYI/AAAAAAAAF4M/dEinWxmZPQMShejWz6-AXUn1BOv4PkzygCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_0451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i><br /></i><i>family movie nights. reading a book under the tree. steaming hot cocoa. fuzzy blankets. warm kittens. nativity scenes. Christmas songs on the radio.</i><br /><i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></i><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /&nbsp;</b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">As you can probably tell from the length of this post...I love Christmas. I'm actually really sad that it's only 5 DAYS AWAY because that means the season leading up to it will be over. *sniffles* BUT I fully intend to enjoy it all while I can. All the moments and memories that make it magical.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5pPwsT6zJI/Wjr94HhijgI/AAAAAAAAF4g/18zPJcjbDaQTHoMoDDX3gqlIrIbnGtk-gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/4b4351c588933feaddac63270e9f805d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5pPwsT6zJI/Wjr94HhijgI/AAAAAAAAF4g/18zPJcjbDaQTHoMoDDX3gqlIrIbnGtk-gCK4BGAYYCw/s320/4b4351c588933feaddac63270e9f805d.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/523825000400976929/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><h4 style="text-align: center;">Can you believe it's only five days till Christmas?? (I CAN'T. o.o) What are some of your favorite Christmas activities? Favorite dessert? Song? Basically, tell me allllll the festive things. xD</h4></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-3665229124973356432017-12-03T23:54:00.000-05:002017-12-05T09:58:33.740-05:00NaNo '17 Recap // I FINISHED MY NOVELLA + Over 10k in a Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAPH1PKmVC0/WiSyoudBF2I/AAAAAAAAF0I/u54Jtn7-HuQwlUBObgbtYSwHgcD8r4bkgCLcBGAs/s1600/nano%2B%252717%2Brecap%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bfinished%2Bmy%2Bnovella%2B%252B%2Bover%2B10k%2Bin%2Bone%2Bday1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAPH1PKmVC0/WiSyoudBF2I/AAAAAAAAF0I/u54Jtn7-HuQwlUBObgbtYSwHgcD8r4bkgCLcBGAs/s1600/nano%2B%252717%2Brecap%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bfinished%2Bmy%2Bnovella%2B%252B%2Bover%2B10k%2Bin%2Bone%2Bday1.png" /></a></div><br />I HAVE RETURNED!! *cue the fireworks and glitter and cookies* It's been far too long since I've posted, and <i>I've missed blogging so much. </i>I'm really looking forward to (hopefully) getting back to a normal posting schedule this month...though I'm actually not making a commitment because um, HELLO, Christmas is a thing.<br /><br />It's December now, and I'm still wrapping my mind around that. CHRISTMAS IS LIKE THREE WEEKS AWAY. How has this happened? o.o<br /><br />NaNo officially ended four days ago - <i>four days ago</i>&nbsp;- and I'm just now getting around to writing a recap. I was hoping I would post weekly updates in November...buuuuut that obviously didn't happen. I explained some of the reasons on Instagram&nbsp;(aka the place I spend way too much time *cough*), but the short version: <b>it was a rough month. </b>I was busy and stressed and it was just h a r&nbsp;d. I didn't even think I would finish NaNo - and I almost didn't. Just barely eked out the words on the last day.<br /><br />I'm still trying not to beat myself up over the fact that I didn't slay NaNo and be the epic Glitter Queen I was last year - <i>but seriously?? </i>I'M. SO. MUCH. BUSIER. 2016 me didn't even have a clue.<br /><br />So yeah, I'm very proud of the fact that I wrote 50k in November, but there are still times when I wish I could be epic like other people (shout-out to the queens - <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Christine</a>, <a href="http://awritersfaith.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Katie Grace</a>, <a href="http://www.abbiee.com/" target="_blank">Abbie</a>, and <a href="http://audreycaylin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Audrey </a>- LIKE HOW ARE YOU EVEN THIS EPIC??) I'm so competitive with myself; it's kind of ridiculous.<br /><br />Before I ramble on too much (ha, too late), let's get on to the actual recap!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">// R E C A P //</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hu4yWrhU2vk/WiTR5KNDyOI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/HMXA4MkPbwEVnxdiQ3F5IacdUEkcCOxvACLcBGAs/s1600/NaNo-2017-Winner-Twitter-Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="1263" height="132" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hu4yWrhU2vk/WiTR5KNDyOI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/HMXA4MkPbwEVnxdiQ3F5IacdUEkcCOxvACLcBGAs/s400/NaNo-2017-Winner-Twitter-Header.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Like I said, November was a difficult month. I had tons of college work, two trips, lots of Christmas program rehearsals, and one tragic event in the family. (My aunt passed away suddenly last week, and it's been hard on my mom and her side of the family. Prayers appreciated.) All of this combined to make writing time very scarce.<br /><br />I was a good deal ahead going into the second week, but...things changed. :P Our Liberty trip was INCREDIBLE and honestly life-changing (I might post about it because <i>wow - </i>I received a huge revelation there) but it didn't leave any time for writing. Thus me being slightly behind when we got back and having too much homework to really crank the words. I got ahead again somehow but then, voila, Thanksgiving arrived! Cue a family roadtrip and studying for finals! *nervous laughter*<br /><br />I must admit, though: Thanksgiving was lovely! I got to visit with family, see FALL COLORS, eat lots of food, visit a used bookstore (can I get an amen?), get lots of aesthetic pictures, and also visit my <i>first </i>tree lot! It was oh-so-magical. &lt;333 I helped my cousins decorate the tree they picked out and basically turned into a Christmas elf the day after Thanksgiving. BECAUSE CHRISTMAS. YESSSSS.<br /><br />When we got back, we had another big rehearsal for our program. I was behind majorly and getting very, very discouraged because where the heck would I find the time to write 14k words during the last week? I had finals and Christmas programs and allllll&nbsp;the things.<br /><br />BUT SOMEHOW I DID?? I don't even know how except that I wrote 5,000 of those words one day and then stayed up insanely late the other nights after all the studying I did for finals. (How am I not dead? I do not know this either.)<br /><br />The important thing is: I DID IT. I WON NANOWRIMO!!!!!! It was an exhausting push to the finish, but I did it. I know I could have written a lot more words if I had the time, but that just wasn't God's plan for this year. And that's okay.<br /><br />Some noteworthy things:<br /><br />- <b>I finished my novella!</b> AHHHHHH. It ended up being much longer than the word limit of 20k (it's currently at about 32.5k right now #help), but I already know some things I want to cut. The only problem is that the deadline is approaching <i>fast. </i>And that's also a lot of words to cut, people. *tries not to panic*<br /><br />- <b>I beat my one-day writing record. </b>Last year, I wrote 10k in a day. I had made it my personal goal to beat last year's record and IT HAPPENED. I wrote over 10k in one day! Granted, it was only like 100 words more than last year <i>but still. </i>IT TOTALLY COUNTS OKAY DON'T BURST MY BUBBLE.<br /><br />- <b>I just loved my characters so freaking much. </b>They're precious cupcakes. Who gave them permission to be this adorable?? *awkward silence as I realize that was me* xD<br /><br />I had a fun time exploring their different personalities and backstories and playing with different writing styles/character dynamics. If I could just define NaNoWriMo 2017 in one word, it would be <b>exploration</b>. I did a lot of exploring this year, and I loved that.<br /><br />So yeah. My characters from both of my projects are darlings. *hugs them*<br /><br />- <b>I made myself cry. For the first time. </b>YES, YOU READ THAT RIGHT. My novella was the first thing I've written that's made me tear up. And it's also the first one that's literally given me chills because of the creepiness. I think it's safe to say this story impacted me a <i>lot.</i><br /><br />- <b>Did I mention I was really busy? </b>Yes? Okay, just wanted to be clear on that. :P<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>// S N I P P E T S //</b></span></div><br /><b>Behind the Velvet Curtain: </b>(I'm only sharing one because there are tons of spoilers xD)<br /><br />Slices of cruel light burned her eyes. Adelia held up her hand to shield them from the painful glare and groaned.<br /><br />Her whole body was trembling with chills. Pain shot through her muscles like fiery darts of torture. She clutched the thing closest to her and dug her nails into soft flesh.<br /><br />“Ouch!”<br /><br />Her eyes flicked open. Searing pain. She suppressed a cry of her own and blinked. The light burned her eyes—fire to her face.<br /><br />Finally, she recovered from the intensity and made out the form of Theo by her side. She released her clawed grip and felt herself shudder again. She rolled her head to the side, too tired to even apologize.<br /><br />But he just took her hand again and whispered, “Squeeze as tight you need to.”<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></div><b>Vagrant Embers:</b></div><div><br />The man who had done me the lovely favor of shoving me to the ground, cutting my throat, and ripping my second-best shirt stood overlooking the entire operation just a few yards ahead. I knew it was stupid—I don’t claim to be the most sensible person at times—but I marched right up to him and practically dared him to stare me in the eyes.<br /><br />He had his hood down now. I was surprised by how normal of a human being he looked. With his neatly-combed blond-ish brown hair and trimmed beard, he actually seemed . . . nice.<br /><br />Just further proof that looks could be deceiving.<br /><br />“Aren’t you supposed to be packing everything up?” He didn’t exactly say it threateningly, but his hand hovered near his hip. And consequently his sword.<br /><br />I really hated him.<br /><br />A stroke of impulsiveness on my part made me roll my eyes. Roll my eyes. That was definitely a decision I shouldn’t have made.<br /><br />To my surprise, he didn’t retaliate. He actually smiled, and it wasn’t a cruel smile either. Not the kind I would have expected from a murderer.<br /><br />Instead, his smile was sincere and something along the lines of warm. “Not many people would have the guts to roll their eyes at me. You really are an interesting case, Forest.”<br /><br />How does he know my name? My mouth formed an “o” and I nearly spat out the question, but he answered it for me.<br /><br />“The rumors. Remember?” His lip formed a half-smile. “You and your band of trained animals are the height of conversation in many areas of the Continent.”<br /><br />A blush flamed hot in my cheeks. I knew what he was referring to: our counterfeiting. He had to have caught wind of all the stories about our false advertising and counterfeit goods. But why would that make him single us out as potential conspirators? We were just a family trying to survive in a cruel world where only the smartest and fastest made it.<br /><br />I had found that out the hard way long ago.<br /><br />There were so many questions peppering my mind, so the next words out of my mouth surprised me. “Do you have a name or do you just go by Hooded Murderer Number One?”<br /><br />Now his grin was evident on his dark complexion. “I go by Stefan. But that’s a good suggestion. I’ll have to keep it in mind.”<br /><br />Were we actually making jokes with each other? Something was wrong with this picture. I stifled the urge to laugh at his humor. No way was I going to laugh at something our captor had said.<br /><br />Think serious. I put on my “serious face,” which was the equivalent of the expression I wore whenever Ren would do something stupid. Which was most of the time.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Thorne returned a few minutes later with arms filled to overflowing with various herbs and some kind of tree bark. I wasn’t one to complain about what food I was putting in my body, but I had to admit, that bark looked a little on the sketchy side.&nbsp;Apparently&nbsp;I wasn’t the only one who thought that because Ozzie’s little voice piped up.<br /><br />“Why is there something black growing on that?”<br /><br />Jareth hurried to shush him, but it wouldn’t have done any good anyway. Ren was already joining in the outcry against the tree bark and garnering support from Nellie and Bene.<br /><br />Thorne just sent me a bemused grin. “Since you’re all so averse to the idea of my cooking, why not let Forest take over?”<br /><br />“No!” Everyone joined in one shout of horror at that thought.<br /><br />“It’s nice to know I’m appreciated,” I mumbled,&nbsp;smile&nbsp;tugging at my mouth despite my best efforts. I had to admit, they were right. My cooking was enough to age someone fifty years prematurely.<br /><br />Despite the various grimaces and groans around the group, we all sucked it up and ate the stew that Thorne prepared. To my surprise, it didn’t taste half bad. It was a little&nbsp;chunky&nbsp;at times, but I told myself it was just pieces of uncooked herbs and not whatever had been growing on that poor tree.<br /><br />It didn’t seem to sit well with Thorne, ironically, because he ran out into the bushes to spew the contents of the meal a few minutes after he had finished.<br /><br />“If we all die of some obscure fungal infection, blame him.” Ren indicated our gagging brother with her half-empty bowl.<br /><br />Ever the optimist, Jareth said, “I’m sure it’s fine. Just a little . . . textured.”<br /><div><br /></div><div>In other words, it was disturbingly lumpy.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /&nbsp;</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry some of those were so long, but I couldn't resist. Forest's family is just the best. xD</div><div><br /></div><div>So was NaNo '17 a success? <b>Yes, I would say so. </b>It was hard. Very hard. But it was worth it.</div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBXjxHUqMRo/WiTROa2ryHI/AAAAAAAAF0U/n2Xdz26dEu0e76bHI56u2AhA0ae4TpaRwCLcBGAs/s1600/NaNo%2B2017%2BWinner%2BStats.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1366" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aBXjxHUqMRo/WiTROa2ryHI/AAAAAAAAF0U/n2Xdz26dEu0e76bHI56u2AhA0ae4TpaRwCLcBGAs/s400/NaNo%2B2017%2BWinner%2BStats.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Final word count: 50,368 words</b></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b>Well, how was your NaNo, writers? Can you believe we're in the LAST month of the year?? LIKE WHAT IS HAPPENING. Are you excited for Christmas?</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-60374722648596981772017-11-08T12:30:00.002-05:002017-11-08T12:30:20.974-05:00NaNo '17 Week 1 Update // I WROTE 20K + No Sugar?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YIT5pXQ7Es/WgMheWniAeI/AAAAAAAAFvk/SggYZLrZASYF8gBfIVDu-EOoxGtHOtOyACLcBGAs/s1600/nano%2B%252717%2Bweek%2B1%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bwrote%2B20k%2B%252B%2Bno%2Bsugar-.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_YIT5pXQ7Es/WgMheWniAeI/AAAAAAAAFvk/SggYZLrZASYF8gBfIVDu-EOoxGtHOtOyACLcBGAs/s1600/nano%2B%252717%2Bweek%2B1%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bwrote%2B20k%2B%252B%2Bno%2Bsugar-.png" /></a></div><br />Oops, there went the ENTIRE FIRST WEEK OF NANO.<br /><br />*awkward wave* Hello there, bookdragons of the internet! I'm back with a little (or not-so-little) update on my NaNo progress. It's been a <i>crazy </i>first week but an awesome one nonetheless. Loooooots of exciting things have been happening. ;)<br /><br />So remember me freaking out last week and saying I hadn't plotted and IT WAS ONLY LIKE A DAY TILL NANO?? Welllll. I spent Halloween (or NaNo Eve - I prefer that holiday) in the library plotting like a crazy person. And the cool thing? IT WORKED. Plotting rarely works for me, but I actually came up with a solid outline that has been <i>super </i>helpful in writing my story.<br /><br />Well, one of them anyway.<br /><br />That's right, if you didn't see it on <a href="https://nanowrimo.org/participants/glitter-queen" target="_blank">my NaNo profile</a>, I'm doing TWO projects this month. (Possibly one other one if I feel like it. #insaneperson) Let me introduce you guys to them really quick. The first one is the story I plotted. It's a steampunk Snow White retelling, which I started back in July. It wasn't working then but MY GOODNESS it's working now.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>// Behind the Velvet Curtain //</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcXebPu4AtI/WgMkCsfBuCI/AAAAAAAAFvw/qVZuCNxyQAUsosHrrg4sfUEsBUWEVTFxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Behind%2Bthe%2BVelvet%2BCurtain%2BCover%2B1%2B%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1003" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcXebPu4AtI/WgMkCsfBuCI/AAAAAAAAFvw/qVZuCNxyQAUsosHrrg4sfUEsBUWEVTFxgCLcBGAs/s320/Behind%2Bthe%2BVelvet%2BCurtain%2BCover%2B1%2B%25283%2529.png" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Some curtains should never be lifted.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Adelia is counting down the days until she is finally free of her job as the magician's assistant. And when a young journalist rolls into town with the offer of a lifetime, she dares to hope her dream will be realized. The only thing that might shatter her hopes is the unusual mirror in her possession. When the mirror shows more than just her reflection, Adelia begins to wonder if legerdemain extends past the stage.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Life is determined to make Theodore bleed. One morning, he wakes up in an orphanage with no memory of how he got there. He runs away to join the circus and there discovers his two passions in life: the violin and performing. But with his impaired eyesight, he has no hopes of pursuing a professional career. He has no memory of his past and no prospects for the future...until a woman in an airship shows up at his door.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">They say the world is a stage. But in the mist-shrouded society of England, some curtains should remain closed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I atually just realized I need to update that synopsis. Things have changed, my friends. xD&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The second project I'm officially (maybe) working on is essentially just a seedling of an idea with a title I slapped on the end of it. Ahem. Very well plotted. ;P I don't even have a Pinterest storyboard or a playlist or a mock cover or ANY OF THE VITAL THINGS. I literally just got an idea, threw together a synopsis, and uploaded it to the NaNo site like 30 minutes before NaNo began. We'll see how this goes. xD</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's supposed to be a fantasy book but like in a futuristic setting. I don't know exactly what I want to do with it or even how to describe it. All I know is there will be conspiracies and lots of siblings and epic fantasy stuff. Priorities, people.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>// Vagrant Embers //</b></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Getting involved in a murder plot was not how she thought her day would go.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Forest and her six siblings have spent their entire lives as vagabonds, wandering the Continent and selling their probably-not-counterfeit wares. But when a customer keels over dead right in front of them, they suddenly find themselves thrust right in the midst of a plot to kill the king: and they are the murderers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">YES I'M SUPER PUMPED/TERRIFIED TO WRITE THIS. It will be 100% pantsed unless I sit down and outline it. Ironic because BtVC is my most-plotted story yet and Vagrant Embers will be my <i>least-</i>plotted. It's going to be interesting. ;)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now that I've <i>finally </i>introduced my WIPs to you...on to the real update!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">// U P D A T E //</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx7nFoCJjes/WgMhZnR9o0I/AAAAAAAAFvo/6nT9cI27Du0HxahdP796Qdq4fTYnRgUOQCEwYBhgL/s1600/NaNo%2B2017%2BWeek%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1366" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx7nFoCJjes/WgMhZnR9o0I/AAAAAAAAFvo/6nT9cI27Du0HxahdP796Qdq4fTYnRgUOQCEwYBhgL/s400/NaNo%2B2017%2BWeek%2B1.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Like usual, I stayed up until midnight and rang in the new NaNo with writing. I was attempting to do a 5k day, even though it was Wednesday (aka one of my busiest days of the week) and I DID. I actually wrote 6k that day and felt like my story had a pretty solid beginning.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The rest of the week basically consisted of me trying to squeeze in writing late at night after all my homework was done. I'm not going to lie: I'm waaaaaaaay busier than I was last year. So I'm trying not to compare my stats to last year when I was insane and actually wrote DOUBLE what I have currently Like...what even was I doing with my life then? o.o I must have consumed unicorn supertonic or something. xD</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But I realize that it's a year later. I'm a year older. I'm a different person than I was same time a year ago. <b>AND THAT'S OKAY.&nbsp;</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm really, really pleased with how NaNo is going so far. I've managed to prioritize things and really be productive with college, writing, <i>and </i>other life things. I feel like that's something I really didn't place importance on last year. In 2016, I essentially ignored almost everything but writing...and that doesn't always work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've had research papers, college essays/applications, boatloads of homework, orchestra rehearsals, and so much more. But you know what? <b>I feel good.</b> I don't feel stressed - not really. Because I'm pushing myself with my writing but not past my breaking point. That's the key thing here. Are there nights when I just want to sleep and not write this darn novella? UM, YOU BET. I sometimes have to choose writing over other things I want to do.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But I'm just having SO MUCH FUN with this story and am completely in love with the characters. &lt;333 It's actually a way more intense story than I've ever written before (may or may not have creeped <i>myself </i>out three or four times o.o) but that's a fun experience! There's still snark (it's in my DNA, what I can say) but all the action and plot twists and emotional conflict take front center. I LOVE IT. Although...um...my friends in my writing Hangout are shaking their fists at me because of all the cliffhangers. (Sorry, Em. xD)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I just hit 20k last night and am SO STOKED. That is actually the word limit for the Rooglewood Press contest entries, so I've already gone over it. OOPSIES. I write long stories, people. But I'm not stressing myself out about it. This is just the first draft, and it's more important that I explore my characters' personalities and establish the storyworld first. THEN I can go back and chop some things out. I have a good idea of how to streamline it anyway so I'm hoping the editing will be a smooth process.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">SO YEAH. That's how I've been feeling. I'm in a really good place emotionally this month. Busy but satisfied and happy. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A few other general life things:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I GOT ACCEPTED TO TWO COLLEGES.</b> Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! I've applied to three that I'm considering going to next fall, and two of them have already accepted me!! My mom and I toured one of them last month, and my top college (Liberty) also accepted me. WHICH I'M SO PUMPED ABOUT OH MY WORD. I totally squealed when I got the letter!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I'm off sugar??</b> Yeah, I started this about five or six weeks ago. I've realized how much sugar I really consume regularly and wanted to make some healthy changes in my life. So I cut out added sugar. I only have dessert on one or two cheat days (usually one, but I DID have part of a donut for National Donut Day :P) and the rest of the week I just have very minimal amounts of sugar, most of it natural. I do feel a lot better about myself and honestly don't miss the sugar that much. It was <i>hard </i>the first few days but after that, it got better. Ummmm...until recently. Now that I'm doing NaNo, I WANT ALL THE SUGAR. It's hard not to stuff leftover Halloween candy down my throat (which I actually didn't eat on Halloween...WHAT IS THIS) but I've managed to so far.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I'm going on a trip!</b> YES!! My mom and I are flying out to Liberty tomorrow morning (in like, less than 24 hours) for this College for a Weekend event they're having. It sounds SO FUN and busy and I'm just really, really excited. &lt;333 BECAUSE COLD WEATHER. AND MOUNTAINS. AND JUST VIRGINIA. Virginia is my happy place. *sighs contentedly*&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <b>I reorganized my bookshelf! </b>I must say, it looks even better than it did before. I had to take all my books down for the hurricane but I finally put them up again and <i>oh my goodness. </i>I'M IN LOVE. 😍</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">// S N I P P E T S //</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Last but certainly not least, I'll leave you all with a few snippets. *rubs hands together evilly* These are all from Behind the Velvet Curtain. A mix of creepy/suspenseful/snarky. xD</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>The creaking steps announced her arrival. Warm lamplight seeped through the opening in the door as a familiar face greeted her. <br /><br />“Coming to tell ghost stories?” <br /><br />Adelia rolled her eyes and elbowed past Theo into the wagon. “Got something better.” She withdrew the hem of her cloak from the plate with a dramatic flourish that only a magician’s assistant could manage. <br /><br />Theo raised an eyebrow. “Well, that’s a disappointment. I was hoping you had a ghost trapped in there.” <br /><br />She snorted and thrust the cake into his hands. “No hauntings tonight, Theo. Just cake.” <br /><br />He broke into that dimpled grin of his and made a beeline for a stack of crates. He set the plate on top of one, then pulled out two beside it in a makeshift table-for-two. Adelia settled on one of them, and Theo grabbed a fork from the sparse number of utensils in the basket beside him. <br /><br />He used the fork to cut the cake in half and slid the piece—the bigger one—on the plate toward Adelia. She regarded it with a question in her eyes, but he waved a hand dismissively. “Go ahead. You have to be starving.” <br /><br />Her stomach rumbled as if on cue, loud enough for her ears to tinge hot pink. Theo didn’t even bother to hide his laugh and handed her a fork. <br /><br />Feeling the heat tingling her skin, she stabbed a section of cake and brought it to her mouth. The sugary sweetness coated her tongue with a taste that could only be rivaled by homemade gingerbread. She closed her eyes and chewed the bite slowly, savoring every second of the flavor. <br /><br />“I could get used to this,” Theo commented.&nbsp;<div><br /></div><div>She smiled and opened her eyes, not surprised to see Theo almost done with his cake already. Typical.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><br />Sob building in her throat, she raced for the door and into the open air. Instead of going to her own wagon, she turned to the quieting circus and wandered aimlessly through the various stands closing up. All the lights were dimming as the workers began to close down shop for the night. It must be late. She was rarely out here when it closed.</div><div><br /></div><div>A hand seized her arm, pain rattling her nerves. She whipped her head around, reflexively trying to slap the person in the face. Black gloves stopped her arm mid-swing. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>“You!” The word erupted from her mouth. Terror kicked her arms into gear again. She kicked at her brother, but he stopped her with a glance back at her wagon.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Chills raced up her spine. It was her wagon. With <i>her </i>sisters in it. <i>Please don’t let him know. Don’t let him see my panic.</i><br /><br />The cruel sliver of a grin on his shadowed face told her otherwise. “My dear sister, what’s the matter? You aren’t afraid of the dark, are you?”<br /> <br />The words made her heart skip a beat. He was winning. He was scaring her—and he knew it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><br />It wasn’t very difficult to find the man; his practical, dusty brown vest practically shouted “out of place” in the noticeably impractical world of the circus. The reporter was ambling through the circus grounds with a bag of popcorn in his hands. Apparently he really loved that stuff.<br /><br />“Good morning,” Theo said. He smiled in a desperate attempt to salvage respectability. Maybe he was lucky and Cassius actually didn’t hate his guts.<br /><br />“Oh, hello.” He turned him a grin that was partially annoyed and partially ready to blot Theo from the face of the earth. There went that theory.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><br />The piercing scream sent desperation clawing at her chest. Adelia’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as she was startled into reality. <br /><i><br />Is this reality? It can’t be. Where am I?</i><br /><br />Horror was blazing through her head like a wildfire. Flames of fear licked at her common sense. She tried to stand but her legs and arms were bolted to the metal bed upon which she lay. All around her were grey, sunken shadows. The slender window in front of her revealed nothing except a sliver of harsh white light in the otherwise grim room. Screams continued to echo somewhere away from her, not too distant.<br /><br />Her heart was hammering with panic as she tried to remember what had happened. The last thing she remembered, she was lying in her own room. Drifting off to sleep in peace as she recalled Theo waiting outside. Keeping her safe.<br /><br />Now she was in a house of horrors. And she had no idea what was happening.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well. That seems like the perfect place to leave you all. *maniacal writer laugh*</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">I WANT TO KNOW: how is NaNo going? What's your wordcount? (I mean, if you want to tell - don't worry, I won't send dragons out to get you if you don't. I'll just stalk your NaNo account mwahaha. xP) If you aren't doing NaNo, how is life going in general?</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-77540571151673576782017-10-30T23:17:00.001-04:002017-10-30T23:17:23.446-04:00Well, There Went October // I Got Instagram? + NANO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vV1kvka6uc0/WffqpZ4N7LI/AAAAAAAAFsg/cs2Z1wLv6zk8ZYNJMUVh6HdsUM3Ds7HHgCLcBGAs/s1600/well%252C%2Bthere%2Bwent%2Boctober%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bgot%2Binstagram-%2B%252B%2Bnano3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vV1kvka6uc0/WffqpZ4N7LI/AAAAAAAAFsg/cs2Z1wLv6zk8ZYNJMUVh6HdsUM3Ds7HHgCLcBGAs/s1600/well%252C%2Bthere%2Bwent%2Boctober%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bi%2Bgot%2Binstagram-%2B%252B%2Bnano3.png" /></a></div><br />So I'm still technically on hiatus but I just wanted to let you guys know a couple things before October ends (WHAT) and NaNo starts (DOUBLE WHAT).<br /><br />First bit of news: <b>I'm on Instagram now. </b>Technically, I've been on since April but I deactivated my account right after I got it and just "officially" became active last week. My account is private, but trust me, I don't bite. I only accept follow requests from people I either know or who have public accounts that I can stalk to see if they share similar interests. So that means you guys are probably good. xD<br /><br />I thought I wouldn't like Instagram, but to be honest...I LOVE IT. It's given me a big creative boost and inspired me to practice my photography skills more. Plus, I can post little updates of things going on in my day that you guys might not see on here. *hint, hint*<br /><br />Anyway, enough of that: you can find me on IG @thesunnyscribbler should you so desire.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1uoLu707HrY/Wffo1D66vaI/AAAAAAAAFsU/DdMVyohOOPMZCRrcd69LAcQRSpG1wIjKgCLcBGAs/s1600/NEW%2BInstagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1366" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1uoLu707HrY/Wffo1D66vaI/AAAAAAAAFsU/DdMVyohOOPMZCRrcd69LAcQRSpG1wIjKgCLcBGAs/s400/NEW%2BInstagram.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />Second little update: <b>NaNo is basically here. </b>Howwwwwwwww? I'm in denial of this fact. IT CAN'T BE TRUE. *runs screaming into the street*<br /><br />The craziest thing is, I STILL don't know what I'm working on or HOW I'm even going to find time to work on it. I'm swamped with homework and orchestra rehearsals and upcoming trips and ALL THE THINGS. But like the crazy person I am, I just had to do NaNo.<br /><br />SO YEAH. Tomorrow I'm camping out in the library to work on homework and have a one-day plotting adventure before NaNo. O.o<br /><br />I'd really like to do weekly updates on here for NaNo, but that might not be feasible. We'll just have to see! I'll most likely be updating my progress on Instagram because #addicted.<br /><br />Just going to plug myself&nbsp;again and leave my link to <a href="https://nanowrimo.org/participants/glitter-queen" target="_blank">my NaNo profile here</a>&nbsp;(yes, I know it's outdated) so you can stalk me and see when I actually upload my project tomorrow. TALK ABOUT LAST MINUTE, PEOPLE. I am not freaking out at all. Noooope. xD<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Well, there you go. A VERY spontaneous update post. It feels <i>so good </i>to be blogging at all - even if it's just a quick, chit-chatty post. Tell me, are you doing NaNo? Are you as unprepared as I am? (Answer: <i>nobody </i>is.)</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-43633524481630121262017-10-19T10:04:00.000-04:002017-10-19T10:04:04.772-04:00Taking a Break // h i a t u s<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W9btamN7g5k/WeiuzPkKwjI/AAAAAAAAFq0/NpfDsp9Vefgs68cDWdLqr2LKlTV6jL9kQCLcBGAs/s1600/taking%2Ba%2Bbreak%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bgoing%2Bon%2Bhiatus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W9btamN7g5k/WeiuzPkKwjI/AAAAAAAAFq0/NpfDsp9Vefgs68cDWdLqr2LKlTV6jL9kQCLcBGAs/s1600/taking%2Ba%2Bbreak%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bgoing%2Bon%2Bhiatus.png" /></a></div><br />In case you don't follow <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my other blog</a> (WHICH YOU SHOULD, BTW xD), I'm also letting all my friends over here know: I'm going on hiatus.<br /><br />You can read the full rambly explanation <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/2017/10/h-i-t-u-s.html" target="_blank">HERE </a>but the spark notes version? <b>I'm so stressed and busy and tired and I can't handle it anymore.</b><br /><b><br /></b>I'm going to miss blogging - it's one of my favorite things that I do, honestly. I don't know when I'll be back, but I'm hoping it will be soon! This doesn't mean I'll necessarily be gone for months or anything. Just that I won't be posting on a schedule and that my posts will be few and far between. (So don't be <i>too </i>disappointed if you actually see a post from me in a couple weeks - you can't get rid of me that easy. xD)<br /><br />So farewell for now, my dear friends! I hope to bring you a post every now and then but I'll definitely miss you all. &lt;3<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">At last, now we've come to the end of all things...JUST KIDDING. I'll be back. There's no&nbsp;way you'll escape my madness. ;) But I want to know: what's been going on in your lives, bookdragons? Tell meeeee.</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-56748535780484910022017-10-12T21:08:00.001-04:002017-10-12T21:08:32.624-04:00The Bibliophile Sweater Tag // The First Tag Created by Yours Truly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-p6A_rLmTM/WeAQFHX3PaI/AAAAAAAAFqU/jWf4x_2_8yc33iK_CP8BinXj8250P8aMACLcBGAs/s1600/the%2Bbibliophile%2Bsweater%2Btag.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-p6A_rLmTM/WeAQFHX3PaI/AAAAAAAAFqU/jWf4x_2_8yc33iK_CP8BinXj8250P8aMACLcBGAs/s1600/the%2Bbibliophile%2Bsweater%2Btag.png" /></a></div><br />Ever since I started blogging, I've been wanting to create my own tag. I dearly love being tagged and answering all the fun, random questions <span style="font-size: x-small;">(even if I actually never do the tags I'm tagged for *COUGH*)</span>&nbsp;so I thought it would be cool to create my own someday.<br /><br />I wanted it to be something autumnal and book-related...and thus the idea of a Bibliophile Sweater Tag was born! This hasn't been done before, to my knowledge, but I <i>did&nbsp;</i>base the format off the Cookie Book Tag, <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/06/a-cookie-book-tag.html" target="_blank">which I did</a> a few months ago and was created by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDIla4qC0ISfKenzPgghh9A" target="_blank">this gal</a>.<br /><br />Basically, here's the gist of it: I came up with 11 different sweaters and a type of book that "matched" each one. I'm not sure if they all make sense? Sometimes I think I'm being clever and then it ends up just being confusing. xD<br /><br />With that lengthy introduction out of the way, on to the tag!<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Rules (more like guidelines...)</b></span><br /><br /><i>- Give the person who tagged you a never-ending supply of cookies (or just thank them - either works)</i><br /><i>- Answer all the questions and use the blog graphic for this tag somewhere in your post</i><br /><i>- Pass along the tag to at least five other people</i><br /><i>- Wear a sweater (okay, this is optional...but why wouldn't you want to??)</i><br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">// The Bilbiophile Sweater Tag //</h4><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fuzzy sweater // a book that is the epitome of comfort</b></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20893527-anne-of-green-gables" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2iyjGqCTdZs/Wd_4nMuVbWI/AAAAAAAAFoE/zbjH7X7yBfg_D_8VHrDzz5uUV-jrXEm5gCK4BGAYYCw/s320/Anne%2Bof%2BGreen%2BGables%2BCover.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><br />This is a hard question <i>(well, yes, I wrote them...but never mind that)</i>&nbsp;because I just have lots of comfort reads. If I were to just pick one off the top of my head, I would have to go with Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. I just read this recently for the first time and <b>oh my word. </b>It's so cozy and charming and <i>beautiful. </i>I LOVE THIS BOOK.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Striped sweater // a book which you devoured every line of</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22024488-a-night-divided" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H9cpizfC8BA/Wd_5sHCPxUI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/gz_EQqObhh8EGYKvbMy2k5i5H8qvOBLPACK4BGAYYCw/s320/A%2BNight%2BDivided.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br />I can think of a lot of books that fit this category...namely any book with <i>looooots </i>of action. But A Night Divided by Jennifer Nielsen is just SO. GOOD. I could not put this book down. With fabulous family dynamics, a rich historical setting, and well-drawn suspense, it's just the definition of good fiction.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Ugly Christmas sweater // a book with a weird cover</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5962744-timescape" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IOiwH_gfJIk/Wd_732EbrMI/AAAAAAAAFoc/DNc539PXR4cFAqP_5_RaAdx13QMzCv4oACK4BGAYYCw/s320/Timescape.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i>(Note: this isn't meant to say that the cover is </i>ugly. <i>Just weird or not to your tastes. ;))</i><br /><i><br /></i>This is the closest I could find for this category. Just...yeah, the sculpture of an old man with glowing eyes is a little creepy. xD<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cashmere sweater // the most expensive book you've bought</b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34268.Peter_Pan?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="319" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwKboI34Bto/Wd_9OC1K01I/AAAAAAAAFok/MMdz6UsvZKMJk5q9wx5g7Jpdr2ZzOojKwCLcBGAs/s320/Peter%2BPan%2BCover.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br />I got this for Christmas a couple years ago, and it was probably one of the most expensive books I've been given. (Yes, I know the price - only because I was eyeing it on Amazon before Christmas. xD) BUT IT'S TOTALLY WORTH IT, GUYS. This has to be one of my top favorite books that I own. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Ever. </i>The format is the coolest thing ever, and it's just a gorgeous book.<br /><br />(Plus, Peter Pan. *grins*)<br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Hoodie // a favorite classic book</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/378.The_Phantom_Tollbooth" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8tRFXpYpMk/Wd_-qs7PfZI/AAAAAAAAFo0/gzs_D9qmR8ks41JAt3wHHchuwKeqSgRfACK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BPhantom%2BTollbooth.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><br />This isn't my VERY favorite classics, but it's one of them! It's just so <i>clever </i>and fun and whimsical...I LOVETH THIS STORY. Highly recommended to anyone who likes whimsical fantasy-type stories.<br /><br />(And can we talk about the illustrations?? I'm lowkey obsessed with them.)<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Cardigan // a book that you bought on impulse</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19006252-prelude-for-a-lord?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8PEqq1SFH4/Wd__sGSgiiI/AAAAAAAAFpE/hVW6hq_aYdg44m5V3nq42FdmkjJDeln7QCK4BGAYYCw/s320/prelude%2Bfor%2Ba%2Blord.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><i>(Explanation for this one: cardigans are kind of the sweaters you would impulsively grab before heading out somewhere...at least they are for me. *shrugs*)</i><br /><br />I had heard good things about this from a couple friends and was interested in reading it...so when I found it on sale, I spontaneously decided to purchase it.<br /><br />Let me just say: it was a <i>very worthwhile </i>purchase. *hugs book*<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Turtleneck sweater // a book from your childhood</b></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/712731.The_Door_Within?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h1DedGedt_Q/WeABu8MaIsI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/WMdk1uGHYKMGLwKd-b5MbagfVlbl24X6wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BDoor%2BWithin.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br />Confession time: I actually wasn't a big reader as a kid. *cue gasps from the crowd*<br /><br />Yes, it's true. I didn't become a bibliophile until I was about ten or eleven. So while I read some books as a youngling, I didn't have any that I would read over and over again. (I missed out on a lot as child, apparently.)<br /><br />One book that really does stick out to me from my younger reading years, though, is The Door Within by Wayne Thomas Batson. I think I read this when I was approximately twelve years old, and it's the book I hold responsible for getting me interested in fantasy.<br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Homemade knitted sweater // a book that is Indie-published&nbsp;</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25873284-to-get-to-you?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fPhzGCfhrhE/WeADC0xUbHI/AAAAAAAAFpk/YbTuG5xTtno5PZWi2cnAG-PXZSzo6-pNgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/To%2BGet%2Bto%2BYou.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br />THIS COVER, THOUGH. I can't get over the beauty. *stares with mouth agape for daysssss*<br /><br />I could list a lot of great indie books for this category (The Girl Who Could See by Kara Swanson, The Reluctant Godfather by Allison Tebo, Martin Hospitality by Abigayle Claire, etc.), but for the sake of brevity, I'll just stick with this one.<br /><br />To Get to You is honestly one of my favorite books <i>everrrrr. </i>ACTUALLY ALL OF JOANNE'S BOOKS ARE. Joanna Bischof is an mind-blowingly talented author. All of her books have raw emotion, unique premises, fabulous characters...they just have everything, my friends. And this one is the perfect summer read. Gahhhhhhhhh.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>V-neck sweater // a book that did not meet your expectations</b></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28449231-unblemished?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciUEfFE1eic/WeAEx2f84DI/AAAAAAAAFpw/kb39kYmxOqomTUOSBMtDw2M3gR7f_y4jACK4BGAYYCw/s320/Unblemished.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><i>(This is supposed to be a sweater that has a v-shaped dip in the neckline...so it could be like a book that dips below your expectations. It works...right? :P)</i><br /><br />WELL THEN. This book was NOT my thing. I wrote a whole rambly review on Goodreads the other day about all the issues I had with this, and...yeah. There are a lot. xD Namely the horrible romance. Goodness gracious. *shields eyes*<br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Argyle sweater // a book with a unique format</b></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18850688-the-butterfly-and-the-violin?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9KylWP7YcZk/WeAGHuCOC6I/AAAAAAAAFp4/6lsfZ-VLJ4YxmOkL_zCSjJiLamDJza8nwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BButterfly%2Band%2Bthe%2BViolin.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><br />This is more in terms of story format, rather than design format. It features two different plotlines, one set during WWII and another in modern times. The author weaves both plots together so seamlessly and beautifully. Kristy Cambron is TALENTED and has the most gorgeous writing style. She's so good at delving into the emotions of her characters - they just feel so <i>real.</i><br /><i><br /></i>READ THIS, PEOPLE.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Polka dot sweater // a book with well-rounded characters</span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32497002-a-name-unknown" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9XY3HkFPWQ/WeAIRr8eOXI/AAAAAAAAFqA/L0lbOeaPe3wNN-WEcgCrLZzFeNZDo2ENwCLcBGAs/s320/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br /><br />C'mon...you knew it was coming. xD<br /><br />I raved about this in a review on my blog several months ago, and every word I said was true. THESE CHARACTERS ARE THE BEST. Like...I can't even describe the level of admiration I have for this book and its people. &lt;333 I would totally recommend this to people who don't even read historical fiction. It has a great premise, some of my favorite characters ever, and it deals with BOOKS. #bookception<br /><br />If you aren't convinced yet, just go read <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/08/book-review-name-unknown-roseanna-m.html" target="_blank">my review</a>. Because I'm obviously the person you go to when you need to make major life decisions. (Aka picking out your next book to read. :P)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Now to choose my victims. *evil chuckle*<br /><br />Evangeline // <a href="http://theoddlifeofegy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">An Odd Blog</a><br />Faith // <a href="http://thefloridsword.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Writer's Song</a><br />Tracey // <a href="http://traceydyck.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Adventure Awaits</a><br />Soleil // <a href="http://thoughtsfromadaughterofgod.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thoughts from a Daughter of God</a><br />Savannah // <a href="http://scattered-scribblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scattered Scribblings</a><br />Natalie // <a href="https://ramblings-of-a-red-head-girl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ramblings of a Redhead Girl</a><br />Christine // <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Musings of an Elf</a><br />Madeline // <a href="https://madelinejrose.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Short &amp; Snappy</a><br /><br />As usual, there's no obligation to do this tag. I've forgotten or been too busy to do tags maaaaaaany times in my life. xD If anyone else would be interested in doing this, feel free! Just be sure to share a link with me in the comments so I can check out your answers. :D<br /><br />For copying-and-pasting purposes, here are all the questions again.<br /><br />Fuzzy sweater (a book that is the epitome of comfort)<br />Striped sweater (book which you devoured every line of)<br />Ugly Christmas sweater (book with a weird cover)<br />Cashmere sweater (most expensive book you've bought)<br />Hoodie (favorite classic book)<br />Cardigan (book that you bought on impulse)<br />Turtleneck sweater (book from your childhood)<br />Homemade knitted sweater (book that is Indie-published)<br />V-neck sweater (book that did not meet your expectations)<br />Argyle sweater (book with a unique format)<br />Polka dot sweater (a book with well-rounded characters)<br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />WELL I DID IT. I made my first tag! *much flailing* What's your favorite kind of sweater? Are you as ready for fall weather as I am? (It's been SOOOO HOT lately. -_-) Have you read any of the books I mentioned?</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-30975120431288390442017-10-05T22:25:00.001-04:002017-10-05T22:25:37.095-04:00A U T U M N Update // First Time Driving + Secret Project + NaNo?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz9xmovyE18/WdabJ2EDu4I/AAAAAAAAFm4/UAgRoMfOGY09c_-FYyYTzma5IhaS0V_8QCLcBGAs/s1600/autumn%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfirst%2Btime%2Bdriving%2B%252B%2Bsecret%2Bproject%2B%252B%2Bnano.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz9xmovyE18/WdabJ2EDu4I/AAAAAAAAFm4/UAgRoMfOGY09c_-FYyYTzma5IhaS0V_8QCLcBGAs/s1600/autumn%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfirst%2Btime%2Bdriving%2B%252B%2Bsecret%2Bproject%2B%252B%2Bnano.png" /></a></div><div><i><br /></i></div><i>(Hello, yes, I'm totally not ignoring life's problems and homework by posting. *cough*)</i><br /><div><i><br /></i></div><div>HAPPY OCTOBER, WORLD! *throws leaves in the air unceremoniously* One of my favorite months of the year has dawned, and I honored it accordingly on <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my other blog</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>There's been a loooot&nbsp;of stuff happening in my life lately, and I really didn't know what else to do except shout that out to the world so...yeah. Typical Mary logic. *nods*</div><div><br /></div><div>I recently got a tripod for my camera (!!!!) so I was able to actually give you a decent quality video for once. (Well, it was SUPPOSED to be&nbsp;good quality, but for some reason, it doesn't look that great now in Google Drive? I&nbsp;spent&nbsp;SO long trying to upload it differently, but it didn't work...ugh. :P) Of course, I didn't have a clue what to do with editing so you basically get raw video footage of me being clueless and rambly and tired. You're welcome.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="364" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9Vssw0BQrCyc2p1MnpSZTNMOXc/preview" width="550"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>*laughs uncertainly because I look really weird in the thumbnail*<br /><br />A few things I forgot to mention: I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow (my first well visit in like, six years *sheepish smile*) that I'm really nervous about. Many of you are probably aware of my fear of needles...and I just feel like I'll probably need shots and I'M&nbsp;LOWKEY FREAKING OUT. O_o I...can't handle needles.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also have a super secret project that I'm working on. It may or may not involve books. But you'll have to wait to find out. *whistles innocently* It's going to take a long time to complete, and it might not actually work out? I HOPE IT DOES. Anyway, look out for a post about that sometime this winter/early spring.<br /><br />I was going to put something else in this post, but I spent so long trying to figure out the video that I don't have time to spare. Bother. Hope this wasn't too much of a bore. ;)<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Are you as excited as I am about fall? Any editing software you would recommend for videos? (I NEED TECH HELP PLEASE.) What have you been reading lately?</h4></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-83884728932435561792017-09-28T07:00:00.000-04:002017-09-28T07:00:01.375-04:00Realm Makers 2017 Recap //<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28xEALFpeTo/WZyPJPYwfTI/AAAAAAAAFQk/asdzPazgm0Aza4CyZOLOGytK1MfQVuG-QCLcBGAs/s1600/realm%2Bmakers%2B2017%2Brecap.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-28xEALFpeTo/WZyPJPYwfTI/AAAAAAAAFQk/asdzPazgm0Aza4CyZOLOGytK1MfQVuG-QCLcBGAs/s1600/realm%2Bmakers%2B2017%2Brecap.png" /></a></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><b>Realm Makers.</b><br /><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><i>Where do I even begin?</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>It was one of the most memorable weekends of my life.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I met so many friends (!!!), learned a ton of things, got books signed, met <i>real authors</i>, took selfies with aforementioned authors...</div><div><br /></div><div>IT. WAS. AMAZING.</div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>day 1 // 7.26.17</b></i></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>wednesday.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>My mom and I had a bit of a snag going out the door that morning (her laptop was doing updates for <i>over three hours</i>), but we somehow got on the road only a little later than planned. Upon arrival at the airport, we headed through security. My suitcase set off some kind of warning and they had to search it--most stressful thing ever, wondering what they were going to find and confiscate *gulps.* I think I actually had a panic attack there, and I was shaking for a while afterward.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Thankfully, that was the roughest part of the trip. Our plane landed in Chicago several hours later, where we killed time during our four-hour layover. AND GUYS. The Chicago airport was <i>the coolest thing ever. </i>There was this rainbow walkway thing, lots of cool architecture, and even a dinosaur skeleton in one terminal. I may or may not have snapped waaaay too many photos. *coughs*&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Our flight was actually switched to a different terminal and that gave us another little scare. The airport in Chicago is MASSIVE, but we were fortunate enough to have plenty of time to make it to the other terminal.<br /><br />After another rather lengthy flight, we landed in Reno, caught a shuttle to the hotel, and were attacked by the smell of smoke in the lobby. (The casino resort was NOT my favorite part of the trip. :P) We crashed in our room soon after because it was so late--midnight in Reno, but 3 am in our time zone.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NHx7yz2CHLQ/WZyRLd0CEaI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/5oaW03nOPfUTz6WhUE3tH38hCSZNpWJBwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0110.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NHx7yz2CHLQ/WZyRLd0CEaI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/5oaW03nOPfUTz6WhUE3tH38hCSZNpWJBwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0110.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-psXCMVMB3Zc/WZyReCuy1KI/AAAAAAAAFQ4/89QR59XKpXU5YWf5x8sDoKQGrZM-cUAgQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0117.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-psXCMVMB3Zc/WZyReCuy1KI/AAAAAAAAFQ4/89QR59XKpXU5YWf5x8sDoKQGrZM-cUAgQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0117.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LgJK0QYoHTE/WZyRtk3vm0I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/NQk1U0Oz20gCHgeR5luAXISKtsrLcmYmwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0128.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LgJK0QYoHTE/WZyRtk3vm0I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/NQk1U0Oz20gCHgeR5luAXISKtsrLcmYmwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0128.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JTwShFmgxkc/WZyRzWhEOEI/AAAAAAAAFRA/Oy97cHEV3xUPfQsd1YaTKo5hKBi2PE9aACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0129.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JTwShFmgxkc/WZyRzWhEOEI/AAAAAAAAFRA/Oy97cHEV3xUPfQsd1YaTKo5hKBi2PE9aACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0129.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld0YAB4GUhE/WZySEpXqI1I/AAAAAAAAFRE/ITPiVg3T5swL1PZa_E0ZjPKTG75huR6EQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0133.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld0YAB4GUhE/WZySEpXqI1I/AAAAAAAAFRE/ITPiVg3T5swL1PZa_E0ZjPKTG75huR6EQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0133.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaJNUHTk2c4/WZySNh0qF8I/AAAAAAAAFRI/iMy52efr0kUeezeGX4yRUFFNuNvl_qXTQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0139.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaJNUHTk2c4/WZySNh0qF8I/AAAAAAAAFRI/iMy52efr0kUeezeGX4yRUFFNuNvl_qXTQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0139.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BgCY0riFGaA/WZySYS1D41I/AAAAAAAAFRM/wN4hYIe0Y8UFg1JiPqEifrDeKDJl7TTBACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BgCY0riFGaA/WZySYS1D41I/AAAAAAAAFRM/wN4hYIe0Y8UFg1JiPqEifrDeKDJl7TTBACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0152.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6gjjX_K-VZA/WZySfGz-lHI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/Vsqi6tonjHYa2I-kOI1LJTckVoV2MDB8QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0148.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6gjjX_K-VZA/WZySfGz-lHI/AAAAAAAAFRQ/Vsqi6tonjHYa2I-kOI1LJTckVoV2MDB8QCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0148.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CBUrlaJyvGU/WZySlY3X8iI/AAAAAAAAFRU/io1avQTshDEaPr7VB6lPRwrn5J_MioJ8ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0153.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CBUrlaJyvGU/WZySlY3X8iI/AAAAAAAAFRU/io1avQTshDEaPr7VB6lPRwrn5J_MioJ8ACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">day 2 // 7.27.17</span></b></i></div><div><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i></div><div><b>thursday.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>We got to sleep in the next day! Well...technically it was only 8:30 when I got up <i>but still. </i>XD There was a pre-conference workshop with David Farland going on, but I didn't sign up for that because #money. ;) It sounds like people really benefited a lot from it, though, so I'll have to consider that if I go again.</div><div><br />My mom and I went out for breakfast at this nifty little bakery, where I got this delicious cinnamon-sugar bagel. The rest of the morning/early afternoon, I holed up in the hotel and wrote up a blog post like a good little blogger. With that checked off, we went down to the conference floor to check in. (And I met <a href="https://kylerobertshultz.com/">Kyle Robert Shultz</a> in the elevator! I had a bit of a freak-out reaction when I realized who he was, and it was rather amusing. XD)</div><div><br />After checking in, I actually met <a href="https://karaswanson.com/">Kara Swanson</a>! Um...offically that is. She was the first person I met at Realm Makers, when we were going up the elevator (yet again) on Thursday. I had no idea at the time that she was actually Kara Swanson--I just looked at her, commented to my mom that she "looked like a writer," and then she actually approached me in the elevator and said basically the same thing. Evidently we just don't like the casino type. ;) I was a bit floored when I found out who she was later that day. But really, she was the <i>sweetest </i>person ever, and I had great fun with her during the conference!</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it was time for the opening! WHERE I MET PEOPLES. :D After the opening, the teens all had this awesome hangout in the arcade with Jill Williamson and her husband Brad. IT WAS THE BESTTT. I connected with quite a few people due to my Studio C shirt. ;) The night also included a keynote speech by Ted Dekker (which was...interesting), the <i>amazing </i>Fight Workshop with Carla Hoch and her "assistant" Ben (they were hilarious and taught me soooo many things about fight scenes), plus a giveaway at the end.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Za-G7surr24/WZyc75UDO-I/AAAAAAAAFSY/pCx0vTWClVsnc9YPdZA6K4DesFeHGCtHQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Za-G7surr24/WZyc75UDO-I/AAAAAAAAFSY/pCx0vTWClVsnc9YPdZA6K4DesFeHGCtHQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0156.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PC0kG6QsI1Y/WZydEXH2c-I/AAAAAAAAFSc/JgLa54IHZb8o6VhRzVo4_qeVWSIVSnZ2QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PC0kG6QsI1Y/WZydEXH2c-I/AAAAAAAAFSc/JgLa54IHZb8o6VhRzVo4_qeVWSIVSnZ2QCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YbmjsMvREeI/WZydLcB9rAI/AAAAAAAAFSg/Y0XdcqFsuYIPKMDLtsWLIxwXjPZsdusUACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0158.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YbmjsMvREeI/WZydLcB9rAI/AAAAAAAAFSg/Y0XdcqFsuYIPKMDLtsWLIxwXjPZsdusUACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0158.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6xBC6HzQIE/WZydXuYIOJI/AAAAAAAAFSk/F3EkCzXSpiggXDlRcWPOZy0jn3X3RfrKACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0163.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6xBC6HzQIE/WZydXuYIOJI/AAAAAAAAFSk/F3EkCzXSpiggXDlRcWPOZy0jn3X3RfrKACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0163.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1ezEN4WsOY/WZyZB10fMVI/AAAAAAAAFRo/qv7qetQYyqggsLl5v82UFCCKyDO4E7I_ACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2994%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1ezEN4WsOY/WZyZB10fMVI/AAAAAAAAFRo/qv7qetQYyqggsLl5v82UFCCKyDO4E7I_ACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2994%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aEXZs6WK94o/WZyZWP1oNpI/AAAAAAAAFRs/R38aihMaCm8AayP5s0t71SnceBxqlGdVwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0174.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aEXZs6WK94o/WZyZWP1oNpI/AAAAAAAAFRs/R38aihMaCm8AayP5s0t71SnceBxqlGdVwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0174.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Met this sweet girl, Arielle, in the Teen Track!&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0cqQIS5mBc/WZyZjgyFviI/AAAAAAAAFRw/x5P25ZpkbM4Tqob57lKCh4BpXNCrZ1wnwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0179.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0cqQIS5mBc/WZyZjgyFviI/AAAAAAAAFRw/x5P25ZpkbM4Tqob57lKCh4BpXNCrZ1wnwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0179.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ss5TIQ0cHNA/WZyaFVB9-PI/AAAAAAAAFR4/Mk71Z3XQBjoJytKF_UxKP1CmEWK8M_2EQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0180.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ss5TIQ0cHNA/WZyaFVB9-PI/AAAAAAAAFR4/Mk71Z3XQBjoJytKF_UxKP1CmEWK8M_2EQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0180.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AecFrHo5-Aw/WZybfOaJUFI/AAAAAAAAFSE/Ze0PblFIChMyGSbi0wXpiKi6XzajFi9GQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0187.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AecFrHo5-Aw/WZybfOaJUFI/AAAAAAAAFSE/Ze0PblFIChMyGSbi0wXpiKi6XzajFi9GQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0187.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gfs_HetZiXc/WZybi34FjtI/AAAAAAAAFSM/Dyqt_453SZcq5Q8qBqU5j7s80ySpN7OEwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2784.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gfs_HetZiXc/WZybi34FjtI/AAAAAAAAFSM/Dyqt_453SZcq5Q8qBqU5j7s80ySpN7OEwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2784.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">day 3 // 7.28.17</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>friday.</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The morning started off with breakfast with my dear friend Tracey. It was so surreal sitting down with her and eating muffins together. (And watching her spill coffee on herself. *chuckles*)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We all had an epic table during the opening (with Tracey, Jonathan, Hann, Audrey, Liv, Elise, and a couple other people) and then split off to our respective classes. I was lucky enough to be a part of the Teen Track with Jill and Brad Williamson this year. And <i>wowwww, </i>was that an incredible experience.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I learned a ton of things, including...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- In his mind, the villain is the hero.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <i>Everyone </i>in your book thinks of themselves as the star.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Build your storyworld with purpose; only build what you need and make sure that elements of your world actually create conflict and are important to the story.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- The most important step of writing dialogue is knowing your characters.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Most guys don't typically roll their eyes. (DON'T LAUGH. This is important information, people. I didn't even realize guys don't do this very often. XD)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">This course continued over Friday and Saturday. On top of all the great information, Jill gave us all a free book! (Which means she's awesome, obviously.) We also all plotted a story together as a class and needless to say, that got a <i>little </i>insane with sixteen people trying to plot the same book. XD But it gave me lots of cool ideas, and I'm really looking forward to writing that story!<br /><br />I had two other classes that day, including a worldbuilding one and an editing demo. Both were really great classes, and I especially loved the editing demo.<br /><br />Some things I learned from those:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Worldbuilding for Middle-Grade with Sally Apokedak //</b></div><br />- Give purpose to quirky details. (Kind of related to what Jill said in the Teen Track.)<br /><br />- You should create a beautiful world worth fighting for. It makes your readers actually want to visit or live in that world.<br /><br />- Everything impacts everything; events in your story should have a ripple effect.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Editing Demo with Lisa Mangum (aka one of my <i>faaaavorite</i>&nbsp;classes) //</b></div><br />- Don't fix something unless it's wrong. In other words, if a writer has given you their story to edit/critique, don't just change something because it's not how YOU would have written it. Only change it if it's actually wrong.<br /><br />- Changing the font before you edit can help switch you into "editor mode.'<br /><br />- Sans serif fonts are easier to read on screens.<br /><br />- Also lots more stuff but I'm too lazy to recap it all. 'Hem. (Hann gave me all her notes from this because she's AWESOME.)<br /><br />After all the classes for the day concluded, we all headed up to our rooms to get ready for the costume banquet! This was a highlight of the trip, for sure. I dressed up as Bilbo Baggins, minus his dagger and walking stick. (I figured security would frown upon those items. ;P) We hung out for a while, taking tons of pictures and stalking different people to see who they were dressed up as. Everyone was so nerdy, and it was the best. XD<br /><br />The awards banquet itself was great fun (even if some of the food was a bit...questionable to my taste buds *ahem*). I sat with Tracey, Arielle, Kara Swanson, and several other people. I almost choked on my food and died of laughter, so I'd call that a pretty successful evening.<br /><br />The banquet concluded rather late, but I stuck around for a bit and chatted with people. I swear I was the most extroverted that weekend that I've EVER been.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQ_w9OosXFI/WaH3dr0KJ1I/AAAAAAAAFS0/ovahkEwS0Vcf3u6nVPAt3EmaZCAOeFicQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0191.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQ_w9OosXFI/WaH3dr0KJ1I/AAAAAAAAFS0/ovahkEwS0Vcf3u6nVPAt3EmaZCAOeFicQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0191.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the ever-sweet <a href="http://traceydyck.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Tracey</a>! Loved spending time with her. &lt;3</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_SIkzL1Tt0/WaI5NwWVnoI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/horA9pdopyIA8UfvTqFns5w42YpjKJADwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3002%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2_SIkzL1Tt0/WaI5NwWVnoI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/horA9pdopyIA8UfvTqFns5w42YpjKJADwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_3002%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rkNiECLY3dY/WaIrVpXpfxI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/ARcmsp4CMhIeIMnwUoY6XU_9rzcs3LpEACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0194.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rkNiECLY3dY/WaIrVpXpfxI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/ARcmsp4CMhIeIMnwUoY6XU_9rzcs3LpEACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0194.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqe79QgRu_s/WaIrcxuYqOI/AAAAAAAAFTU/6l_m7Tj620829I_Sl_2_6t0LQwh5iqPQwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0197.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqe79QgRu_s/WaIrcxuYqOI/AAAAAAAAFTU/6l_m7Tj620829I_Sl_2_6t0LQwh5iqPQwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0197.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SoCq0FMBFY4/WaIrju9BacI/AAAAAAAAFTY/wlMkiNw1Wc0Nwht4SU5uWappa2Akdz-KwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0200.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SoCq0FMBFY4/WaIrju9BacI/AAAAAAAAFTY/wlMkiNw1Wc0Nwht4SU5uWappa2Akdz-KwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0200.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hann and <a href="http://fishing4ideas.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jonny</a>! Had so much fun with these two. ;)</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X298XvUgGRM/WaIsdRYWiiI/AAAAAAAAFTg/zdHvmndYK6EHy2PiEx2Oa-DrO_0k4CnjwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0202.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X298XvUgGRM/WaIsdRYWiiI/AAAAAAAAFTg/zdHvmndYK6EHy2PiEx2Oa-DrO_0k4CnjwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0202.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCnoq0C3qbM/WaIslDr7fqI/AAAAAAAAFTk/zO-FyZnauSo1QuFCH4BWQ7SdcJpVjP50gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0204.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCnoq0C3qbM/WaIslDr7fqI/AAAAAAAAFTk/zO-FyZnauSo1QuFCH4BWQ7SdcJpVjP50gCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0204.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and <a href="http://storitorigrace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Victoria</a>! It was awesome meeting her. ^_^</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb2bIqL1xZ0/WaIzysf5pbI/AAAAAAAAFT0/o48wO9AL20gLO5gz9zL2WCNKRmzY5QXVwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0207.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb2bIqL1xZ0/WaIzysf5pbI/AAAAAAAAFT0/o48wO9AL20gLO5gz9zL2WCNKRmzY5QXVwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0207.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R9Bs75Bregg/WaI0dJBfYFI/AAAAAAAAFT8/Y3paLLbymw8bpVpOCq_-eYzmBZsivsD6gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2787.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R9Bs75Bregg/WaI0dJBfYFI/AAAAAAAAFT8/Y3paLLbymw8bpVpOCq_-eYzmBZsivsD6gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2787.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our epic table! *thumbs up*</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8o_z2NEqIlI/WaI4v4jvGKI/AAAAAAAAFU4/YdWs-VxEWy4hvY_fsiO5ZOBoB6yAOpAUQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4125%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8o_z2NEqIlI/WaI4v4jvGKI/AAAAAAAAFU4/YdWs-VxEWy4hvY_fsiO5ZOBoB6yAOpAUQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4125%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hann and moi ;)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIxMZIxRrL8/WaI46fTOsdI/AAAAAAAAFVA/sYBvGveS9803ZRCb0qxFA7EgWEaB93c4QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4136%255B1%255D%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIxMZIxRrL8/WaI46fTOsdI/AAAAAAAAFVA/sYBvGveS9803ZRCb0qxFA7EgWEaB93c4QCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4136%255B1%255D%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group selfie at Teen Track!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3hMqOeeOWE/WaI58r7PmJI/AAAAAAAAFVo/KF8VydiR8jc2c9X55Xc9OZVPlaf8T0MwwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1620.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3hMqOeeOWE/WaI58r7PmJI/AAAAAAAAFVo/KF8VydiR8jc2c9X55Xc9OZVPlaf8T0MwwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1620.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxcfYuvgSlQ/WaI05BMA6JI/AAAAAAAAFUE/Zt5MYJ6gn_oCcjkUtcjOCqqJ659YFhFuwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2811.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxcfYuvgSlQ/WaI05BMA6JI/AAAAAAAAFUE/Zt5MYJ6gn_oCcjkUtcjOCqqJ659YFhFuwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2811.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The costume banquet! You see the upper half of Tracey's Emma Swan<br />costume and my Bilbo Baggins costume.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWiNMOYz5BY/WaI1MTdkehI/AAAAAAAAFUI/ktBKulHmSKE0-bpLS62OZksj0mEXlOSUQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0209.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWiNMOYz5BY/WaI1MTdkehI/AAAAAAAAFUI/ktBKulHmSKE0-bpLS62OZksj0mEXlOSUQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0209.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elise as Elizabeth Swann, Jonny as Robin Hood/random peasant/Peter Pan (let's just<br />stick with Robin Hood, shall we? XD), Hann as herself, me as Bilbo, and Audrey as herself.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5csCGdWiyo/WaI2cGL-s3I/AAAAAAAAFUU/dMtehEz-MmQKmliQqQIImKKymHkLmAiewCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0212.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w5csCGdWiyo/WaI2cGL-s3I/AAAAAAAAFUU/dMtehEz-MmQKmliQqQIImKKymHkLmAiewCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0212.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Tracey, Brianna as a medieval peasant, and Lisa as Arwen</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XeJoyIDWFrw/WaI2mUlfbXI/AAAAAAAAFUY/bedVxsCgV5ojOklhKSoa6cT5rOBwxjgwACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0215.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XeJoyIDWFrw/WaI2mUlfbXI/AAAAAAAAFUY/bedVxsCgV5ojOklhKSoa6cT5rOBwxjgwACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0215.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracey, Liv as a fairy, Lisa, Brianna</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZyE5ceDOi8/WaI28SMxTkI/AAAAAAAAFUc/8nLY78gEZlcaP28_kzbsSgjy5uYlzyJzQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fZyE5ceDOi8/WaI28SMxTkI/AAAAAAAAFUc/8nLY78gEZlcaP28_kzbsSgjy5uYlzyJzQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0217.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIX2Ir3A54k/WaI3Cy1_HvI/AAAAAAAAFUg/32tH7c4t-60P_o0Hamauhhlm-stWIxLewCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIX2Ir3A54k/WaI3Cy1_HvI/AAAAAAAAFUg/32tH7c4t-60P_o0Hamauhhlm-stWIxLewCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0220.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVnh7fWet1s/WaI3Jfk3O1I/AAAAAAAAFUk/L3R_uyHNdVAVVVyO0SsOlZJJuIYFDV7LQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0230.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVnh7fWet1s/WaI3Jfk3O1I/AAAAAAAAFUk/L3R_uyHNdVAVVVyO0SsOlZJJuIYFDV7LQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0230.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alllll the steampunk!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-16WERIhLUZk/WaI3S9wjMtI/AAAAAAAAFUo/jM_KdvO4Ef0WvciDorKB9gWp42XkCa0jQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0223.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-16WERIhLUZk/WaI3S9wjMtI/AAAAAAAAFUo/jM_KdvO4Ef0WvciDorKB9gWp42XkCa0jQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0223.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steampunk&nbsp;+ Toothless = perfection</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUSNn4hlmnw/WaI5f4XCl7I/AAAAAAAAFVg/ztXwIcRvsdEvN8cqHNMfZC5AynaD-kDFwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4142%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUSNn4hlmnw/WaI5f4XCl7I/AAAAAAAAFVg/ztXwIcRvsdEvN8cqHNMfZC5AynaD-kDFwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4142%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2S1Uma8xy4/WaI6M1vemVI/AAAAAAAAFVs/xA4Bz1swBLw36qsn_-JB8srl42FkeeTxQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0225.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2S1Uma8xy4/WaI6M1vemVI/AAAAAAAAFVs/xA4Bz1swBLw36qsn_-JB8srl42FkeeTxQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonny and Elise</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pplfN-wQMAk/WaI61Qk-0mI/AAAAAAAAFV0/221ZLgOBdeAHX-TPtuK2Es3lFQo4NiE8QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0228.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pplfN-wQMAk/WaI61Qk-0mI/AAAAAAAAFV0/221ZLgOBdeAHX-TPtuK2Es3lFQo4NiE8QCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0228.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two Jonathans ;)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5t7zJQJKc2s/WaI6-B0drqI/AAAAAAAAFV8/iQP1SVafvewcT3M-6P0Y_362Kna2HspxACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0232.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5t7zJQJKc2s/WaI6-B0drqI/AAAAAAAAFV8/iQP1SVafvewcT3M-6P0Y_362Kna2HspxACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0232.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan and Tracey</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmwZCK2-UjQ/WaI7HLIsXDI/AAAAAAAAFWA/A3E8ueCo1t4huaVXduEnLZgf1ZqhUV3GwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0235.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FmwZCK2-UjQ/WaI7HLIsXDI/AAAAAAAAFWA/A3E8ueCo1t4huaVXduEnLZgf1ZqhUV3GwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0235.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Um...don't ask. XD</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_4K2SQZuWk/WaI7P44IxeI/AAAAAAAAFWE/Xc3JihgUNlAjsv2vW5f3fcRP0KYDRn1GACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0238.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_4K2SQZuWk/WaI7P44IxeI/AAAAAAAAFWE/Xc3JihgUNlAjsv2vW5f3fcRP0KYDRn1GACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0238.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow White and her adorable little dwarf &lt;3</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZhFMCT90U8/WaI7lLi-uDI/AAAAAAAAFWI/eQeu3B2CHt8vr07s8GGLjfNknP2-qQWsgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0242.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZhFMCT90U8/WaI7lLi-uDI/AAAAAAAAFWI/eQeu3B2CHt8vr07s8GGLjfNknP2-qQWsgCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0242.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kara as Anastasia!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nGllAyrGw_E/WaI8AlAMWYI/AAAAAAAAFWM/2E37s_wdjM88vHQYCkrRlZp0sc6SAQDDgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0257.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nGllAyrGw_E/WaI8AlAMWYI/AAAAAAAAFWM/2E37s_wdjM88vHQYCkrRlZp0sc6SAQDDgCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0257.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>day 4 // 7.29.17</i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>saturday.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">SATURDAY WAS THE BEST. And also the worst because I had to say goodbye to all the peoples. *wipes away tears*</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I started out the day with delicious breakfast (seriously--donuts and fruit and muffins...what more could we want??) with some of my friends. Afterwards, we had the opening and then split into our respective classes.<br /><br />Teen Track was the first on the list again. It was actually really sad because it was our last session and we had to say goodbye to Jill and Brad. (Although I saw them that night, too--can't get rid of them. *winks*) I really learned a lot from that class, got fabulous story seedlings, and grew closer to a lot of teen writers. IT WAS FAB.<br /><br />Then there was the character motivation workshop with Lisa Mangum. Truthfully, she was probably one of my favorite people teaching at the conference. Her classes were SO helpful!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Make Me: Character Motivations&nbsp;+ Goals with Lisa Mangum //</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Your readers will believe anything if you give your characters the motivation to do it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- You should make your characters have to choose between two things that are extremely important to them. (For instance, "nothing is more important than family EXCEPT revenge.")</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Every option the characters face must have consequences or risks.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Don't promise change in your story that does not occur.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We took a break for lunch, and I stole away from our table to finalize some book purchases. (I got LOTS of books, folks. Lots. Of. Books.) Afterwards, we attended one of the sponsor spotlights which was all about connecting with readers. I sadly missed part of it because of my critique session, but from what I heard, it was really encouraging and interesting. I'm not published yet, but there are some tips that really are applicable to any writer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>For Authors Who Want to Reach Readers with Suzanne Kuhn //</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- An author without readers is just a diarist.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- <i>Never </i>be without a Sharpie. They're permanent and can write on anything. (Like when you're signing your books for people.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Know what author your style is like. This doesn't mean copy them, obviously--everyone has their own unique flair that sets them apart. However, readers enjoy reading books with a similar feel to other authors they've read so this is a good thing to keep in mind.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As I mentioned, I had a critique session with Jill Williamson that afternoon. It went really well, and I'm glad I signed up for it! She sent me tips on a piece of my writing that I emailed her before the conference, and when we met up, I chatted with her and asked any questions that came to mind. It was a lot different than I expected. More of a relaxed conversation about her writing experience and tips she had to offer. I will definitely want to do this again in the future, though I will probably want to write out some questions beforehand.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The two of us actually got so involved in our chat that we were really late to the next workshop. #oops xD I caught the tail end of the magic systems class with David Farland, where he shared some things that really stuck out in my mind.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Building Your Magic System with David Farland //</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- There's a moral consequence to magic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- There should be <i>limitations </i>to the magic in your story. It's not an all-powerful cure-all.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Along those lines, the magic system should be somewhat broken. It shouldn't be easy to use and able to fix everything.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">With that, all the actual conference workshops were over. I skipped out on much of the ending keynote by Dekker and chatted with some people during that time. A big group of us went out and ate delicious pizza (with pineapple on it--<i>yesssss</i>) and had deep conversations over dinner. (We also talked about how Jonathan sounded like a valley girl and learned about Canadian money...totally normal.)<br /><br />Then there was the book signing! AHHHHHH. I got books signed by Kyle Robert Shultz, Kara Swanson, Jill Williamson, Robert Liparulo, Ted Dekker (thanks to Hann for waiting in line for me!), and Laura VAB. We all got an epic selfie with Mary Weber also and enjoyed a chocolate fountain. Basically...IT WAS PURE EPICNESS.<br /><br />The concluding event of the evening? <b>The nerf war. </b>Oh my word, can you say best thing ever?? I've got to say, this was one of the highlights of the trip. Although I was 1000% clueless and basically hid the entire time, it was a blast. There were hundred-or-so writers gathered in a room with weapons. Was it chaos?<br /><br />...You better believe it. ;)<br /><br />Sadly, all good things must come to an end. Jonathan and I stayed there until midnight (because let's face it: midnight is the defining point of awesomeness) and I had to part ways with all my friends. *sad sigh* All in all, the perfect way to end one of the best weekends of my life.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IbiTrXwQK8M/WcsN-fYKMwI/AAAAAAAAFh0/ztqqhLf4IAwJRvf6Z4Itl3WXH3eB9ptzQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0267.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IbiTrXwQK8M/WcsN-fYKMwI/AAAAAAAAFh0/ztqqhLf4IAwJRvf6Z4Itl3WXH3eB9ptzQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0267.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bookstore. (One side of it. Sadly, I didn't get a picture of<br />the whole place.)</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hoxI4i-zZ2g/WcsONe4EgUI/AAAAAAAAFh8/ECyODwPCwPQZ5kgGz0-i8Q22m5KxKb0WwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0269.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hoxI4i-zZ2g/WcsONe4EgUI/AAAAAAAAFh8/ECyODwPCwPQZ5kgGz0-i8Q22m5KxKb0WwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0269.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TiHx5fLqpw/WcsOTDGl_5I/AAAAAAAAFiA/-BT9MZACZ6YfcQ2AYdqiuIYkcOyloKuCwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0270.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TiHx5fLqpw/WcsOTDGl_5I/AAAAAAAAFiA/-BT9MZACZ6YfcQ2AYdqiuIYkcOyloKuCwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0270.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast *drools*</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clrHtEhOP7A/WcsO2TCHmGI/AAAAAAAAFiI/N9MDFC5DbH4M7fhyB164WvuIT9caCHztQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSC_0271.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clrHtEhOP7A/WcsO2TCHmGI/AAAAAAAAFiI/N9MDFC5DbH4M7fhyB164WvuIT9caCHztQCEwYBhgL/s400/DSC_0271.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5y8hF-zyLyQ/WcsPiI9XqJI/AAAAAAAAFiU/fJo9sfas3m0LX7Mg5DLRHQOYOi-fjwnSwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3022%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5y8hF-zyLyQ/WcsPiI9XqJI/AAAAAAAAFiU/fJo9sfas3m0LX7Mg5DLRHQOYOi-fjwnSwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_3022%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEccgCpEHXA/WcsP1mcO61I/AAAAAAAAFic/D_oFZDSYqocyTPvNAKAwMHKxgMLnTlfZACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4190%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEccgCpEHXA/WcsP1mcO61I/AAAAAAAAFic/D_oFZDSYqocyTPvNAKAwMHKxgMLnTlfZACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4190%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(For the record, I was NOT ready for this picture. :P)</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jecTqbLkqOw/WcsQsvteXqI/AAAAAAAAFio/HzB9nxLPgkUWL2UlaZ4mvotg_cgKRbWswCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0280.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jecTqbLkqOw/WcsQsvteXqI/AAAAAAAAFio/HzB9nxLPgkUWL2UlaZ4mvotg_cgKRbWswCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0280.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-edpnYEdnHFA/WcsQ3lf3NEI/AAAAAAAAFis/AP_XzqC2km4vZZstPMn6Y3oDYNOurz_7wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0285.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-edpnYEdnHFA/WcsQ3lf3NEI/AAAAAAAAFis/AP_XzqC2km4vZZstPMn6Y3oDYNOurz_7wCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0285.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YwWOSGU0WYU/WcsRAe1q09I/AAAAAAAAFiw/mjxnr8SgFIMG-GsjItyG8e_j8X6tNXPfACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0287.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YwWOSGU0WYU/WcsRAe1q09I/AAAAAAAAFiw/mjxnr8SgFIMG-GsjItyG8e_j8X6tNXPfACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0287.JPG" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdh4onnsOFE/WcsRpDqKxBI/AAAAAAAAFi4/E5i9ksYXxnkjNJGEIuM_io22SvPf_T9rACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0289.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdh4onnsOFE/WcsRpDqKxBI/AAAAAAAAFi4/E5i9ksYXxnkjNJGEIuM_io22SvPf_T9rACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0289.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0i0EJPvYWg/WcsRzaRFjeI/AAAAAAAAFi8/KUds-OiPsV8dpJvQeuUrPq9pPd4jPq47gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0296.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0i0EJPvYWg/WcsRzaRFjeI/AAAAAAAAFi8/KUds-OiPsV8dpJvQeuUrPq9pPd4jPq47gCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0296.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--tAEexk8eEQ/WcsSFIfbznI/AAAAAAAAFjA/s5jqEw2HT3kyObI2uDIzmJNQMZQpDm58wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0306.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--tAEexk8eEQ/WcsSFIfbznI/AAAAAAAAFjA/s5jqEw2HT3kyObI2uDIzmJNQMZQpDm58wCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0306.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forgive the blurry photo...my conference pictures aren't the<br />best quality.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OYYYACmhmZk/WcsSaSNXo_I/AAAAAAAAFjI/qnCJ4fpBZsAcdJELCtMXWk-1WwAK67EJACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2706%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OYYYACmhmZk/WcsSaSNXo_I/AAAAAAAAFjI/qnCJ4fpBZsAcdJELCtMXWk-1WwAK67EJACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2706%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie with Jill!</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q93K8hrXtA/WcsShdMQv2I/AAAAAAAAFjQ/RgkVLKyaigoACiDK3Nr199Wqt9n8lOgiwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2933.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q93K8hrXtA/WcsShdMQv2I/AAAAAAAAFjQ/RgkVLKyaigoACiDK3Nr199Wqt9n8lOgiwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2933.JPG" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GzO-48SENL8/WcsSqAvZVLI/AAAAAAAAFjY/SuHUfCuAwj4xfPsGPD3_edIHWshOQencgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2937%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GzO-48SENL8/WcsSqAvZVLI/AAAAAAAAFjY/SuHUfCuAwj4xfPsGPD3_edIHWshOQencgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2937%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracey and me :)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z7GVLy2vF8/WcsTknJjTOI/AAAAAAAAFjo/-ZxhevHMp50OJDSgCuFo-g_GAAqOPBwJACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_20170729_181802.jpg"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z7GVLy2vF8/WcsTknJjTOI/AAAAAAAAFjo/-ZxhevHMp50OJDSgCuFo-g_GAAqOPBwJACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_20170729_181802.jpg" width="300" /></a></i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XFcTei1L4JY/WcsTpBDY8bI/AAAAAAAAFjw/CU6q8A2w9w0KG-xqSUyCSAq_hId9bEhLwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1730.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XFcTei1L4JY/WcsTpBDY8bI/AAAAAAAAFjw/CU6q8A2w9w0KG-xqSUyCSAq_hId9bEhLwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1730.JPG" width="400" /></a></i></span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kpHsMDjj3dM/WcsTtvWLz6I/AAAAAAAAFj4/2rzvzDv95ZMhv5jrVYpV5JSg_CU1oOHfwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1737.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kpHsMDjj3dM/WcsTtvWLz6I/AAAAAAAAFj4/2rzvzDv95ZMhv5jrVYpV5JSg_CU1oOHfwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1737.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUortDhQUOQ/WcsTxLXmcNI/AAAAAAAAFkA/OB5gHoDlJMU27mT8OMHxfku1_kXekS54gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1748.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUortDhQUOQ/WcsTxLXmcNI/AAAAAAAAFkA/OB5gHoDlJMU27mT8OMHxfku1_kXekS54gCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1748.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hIHZ_-xzY0/WcsT10wFgGI/AAAAAAAAFkI/vRZgSZ5Pr_YG0xYLhqI0de1Q_2EO7oaZQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3hIHZ_-xzY0/WcsT10wFgGI/AAAAAAAAFkI/vRZgSZ5Pr_YG0xYLhqI0de1Q_2EO7oaZQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1757.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5Wub2A5nk0/WcsUtyf6KxI/AAAAAAAAFkU/gT3Uh_wuza0N4e9ZXtDjo_nFnkCf3f2xgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3023%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5Wub2A5nk0/WcsUtyf6KxI/AAAAAAAAFkU/gT3Uh_wuza0N4e9ZXtDjo_nFnkCf3f2xgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_3023%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y3DcLQXYSzU/WcsUyIfud0I/AAAAAAAAFkc/beHr5fTSWxcUPpRQ-kHoGOHLEC4eI5cWQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3024%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y3DcLQXYSzU/WcsUyIfud0I/AAAAAAAAFkc/beHr5fTSWxcUPpRQ-kHoGOHLEC4eI5cWQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_3024%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_k8RBu-3HU/WcsU2O_CYgI/AAAAAAAAFkk/ufbzu1EYSxozpYrSxShqE3ky8sIm7zUBACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4181%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A_k8RBu-3HU/WcsU2O_CYgI/AAAAAAAAFkk/ufbzu1EYSxozpYrSxShqE3ky8sIm7zUBACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4181%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9TruB2_J1P4/WcsU7gi-QpI/AAAAAAAAFks/4yFA6wjpQA48sITAtybIQ0AkxHv1TjzLgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4226%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9TruB2_J1P4/WcsU7gi-QpI/AAAAAAAAFks/4yFA6wjpQA48sITAtybIQ0AkxHv1TjzLgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4226%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Funny story: Tracey actually came up behind me and nearly gave<br />me a heart attack before this picture<br />was taken. (Thanks, darling. xD)</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_vMIjBrwgE/WcsVMx7dnGI/AAAAAAAAFk0/C6qjrLT_S9kH9tcwvlzCP0RLd0MmhSQogCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4232%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_vMIjBrwgE/WcsVMx7dnGI/AAAAAAAAFk0/C6qjrLT_S9kH9tcwvlzCP0RLd0MmhSQogCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4232%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hL7X2PwOMHE/WcsVhsAscBI/AAAAAAAAFk8/OJTPdIDhaLcVTMG8IAe-8NaDOqKFiOwWQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4262%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hL7X2PwOMHE/WcsVhsAscBI/AAAAAAAAFk8/OJTPdIDhaLcVTMG8IAe-8NaDOqKFiOwWQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4262%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZsfW3zXHtU/WcsWBAwPiRI/AAAAAAAAFlI/D9HIjGDqD5YYcxdc_zDlA84ea1VWMFshQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4248%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZsfW3zXHtU/WcsWBAwPiRI/AAAAAAAAFlI/D9HIjGDqD5YYcxdc_zDlA84ea1VWMFshQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4248%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQqMVdlO-ms/WcsWGFdkVyI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/d3oX7bTlMgU1c6feyAlwnCdcfjEIyvojACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4249%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQqMVdlO-ms/WcsWGFdkVyI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/d3oX7bTlMgU1c6feyAlwnCdcfjEIyvojACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4249%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></b><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PjUDiT_Omt8/WcsWKo9Y7UI/AAAAAAAAFlY/TSR_S6_51O8WmuegCbIwpDKPSOemywG3QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4347%255B2%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PjUDiT_Omt8/WcsWKo9Y7UI/AAAAAAAAFlY/TSR_S6_51O8WmuegCbIwpDKPSOemywG3QCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4347%255B2%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie with Mary Weber (yes, this is epic)</td></tr></tbody></table><b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peIBh_Qc2IY/WcsWkdOVADI/AAAAAAAAFlg/wTxn6xfuTfceK1Z1fjCxk4QpmOcC0p6KQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3032%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peIBh_Qc2IY/WcsWkdOVADI/AAAAAAAAFlg/wTxn6xfuTfceK1Z1fjCxk4QpmOcC0p6KQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_3032%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCEYjls09cs/WcsWsV-WjeI/AAAAAAAAFlo/eIRkAPjVRKoTgURKAOSFw8l_JmzMYhPrwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4280%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCEYjls09cs/WcsWsV-WjeI/AAAAAAAAFlo/eIRkAPjVRKoTgURKAOSFw8l_JmzMYhPrwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4280%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mTIAVKZrNDE/WcsW1GlCTmI/AAAAAAAAFlw/R1RTT1aG0oAnI_oxSQAy7JJcRL-m0x6dACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4282%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mTIAVKZrNDE/WcsW1GlCTmI/AAAAAAAAFlw/R1RTT1aG0oAnI_oxSQAy7JJcRL-m0x6dACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4282%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RU8-oHAfkA/WcsW5s3FF5I/AAAAAAAAFl4/4ZUfEnaKdmsK_eiGTcHgsY0MbWxGN_HGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4283%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RU8-oHAfkA/WcsW5s3FF5I/AAAAAAAAFl4/4ZUfEnaKdmsK_eiGTcHgsY0MbWxGN_HGACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4283%255B1%255D.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksVU3ses8Wg/WcsXLhmRMNI/AAAAAAAAFmA/lFjvao1BqywefBlKsbZ-cUZUGVdjVO6VwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2964%2B%25281%2529.JPG"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksVU3ses8Wg/WcsXLhmRMNI/AAAAAAAAFmA/lFjvao1BqywefBlKsbZ-cUZUGVdjVO6VwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2964%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></span></b><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFlmY4fe54U/WcsXO5dOe-I/AAAAAAAAFmI/KvvHuFvfnYUMeb39sBTS9qnrImpSVNDQwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4303%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yFlmY4fe54U/WcsXO5dOe-I/AAAAAAAAFmI/KvvHuFvfnYUMeb39sBTS9qnrImpSVNDQwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_4303%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm actually really obsessed with this picture.</td></tr></tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-size: large;">People I Met //</span></b></div><br /><a href="http://fishing4ideas.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jonny</a><br /><a href="http://storitorigrace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Victoria</a><br /><a href="http://traceydyck.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Tracey</a><br />Hann<br /><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Liv</a><br /><a href="http://audreycaylin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Audrey</a><br /><a href="http://dimensionsofmyuniverse.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Cassia</a><br /><a href="http://keturahskorner.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Keturah</a><br /><a href="https://lisapickle.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Lisa</a><br />Elise<br />Arielle<br /><a href="https://jessilroberts.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jessi</a><br /><a href="https://oliviahofer.com/" target="_blank">Olivia</a><br /><br />You guys are all fabulous, and it was so cool meeting you! I didn't get to spend much time with some of you, unfortunately, but it was still a great time meeting everyone. :)<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Authors I Met //</span></b></div><br /><a href="https://karaswanson.com/" target="_blank">Kara Swanson</a><br /><a href="https://kylerobertshultz.com/" target="_blank">Kyle Robert Shultz</a><br /><a href="http://jillwilliamson.com/" target="_blank">Jill Williamson</a><br /><a href="http://www.maryweber.com/" target="_blank">Mary Weber</a><br /><a href="http://www.robertliparulo.com/" target="_blank">Robert Liparulo</a><br /><a href="http://lauravanarendonkbaugh.com/" target="_blank">Laura VAB</a><br /><a href="https://morganlbusse.com/" target="_blank">Morgan Busse</a> (well, kind of--she asked me to take a picture of her and some other people at the costume banquet...so that counts? XD)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Things for Next Time &nbsp;(because Katie Grace and Audrey did this before, so it's obviously a good idea) //</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>- <b>Take more pictures.</b> (I know what you're thinking: "this isn't enough??" Well, I was basically the only person with a big camera to lug around so I felt out of place taking pictures. Thus, next time I'd like to have an iPod/iPhone for more convenience. But we'll see.)<br /><br />- <b>Save room for books in your suitcase.</b> Um. Let's just say it was interesting packing everything up when we left.<br /><br />- <b>Write out questions for critiques/meetings/talks with authors. </b>I didn't do that this time, and I regret it. Although I had a great time chatting with Jill during the critique, I really wish I had thought to write down questions I had for her beforehand.<br /><br />- <b>Get business cards. </b>Because these make you look 10000x cooler than you actually are. XD<br /><br />- <b>Take pictures with authors. </b>I actually only have a couple pictures with authors and that's sad. NEXT TIME, PEOPLE.<br /><br />- <b>Do the pre-conference workshop. </b>It's more money, obviously, but I think it would be really valuable. So yes. I'm interested in doing this next time. :D<br /><br />- <b>Bring a Nerf gun. </b>Because I shall need it. Also, <i>bring a backpack, Mary. </i>The bags I brought to the conference were Very Awkward.<br /><br />- <b>Pre-write blog posts. </b>News flash: it's actually really stressful to have to crank out blog posts during a writing conference. Who woulda thought. *rolls eyes* :P<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Additional Notes //</span></b></div><b><br /></b> - I obviously didn't take all these pictures. Photo credit for lots of these pics goes to <a href="http://audreycaylin.blogspot.com/">Audrey</a>, <a href="http://traceydyck.blogspot.ca/">Tracey</a>, and <a href="http://fishing4ideas.blogspot.com/">Jonathan</a>. (Thanks for letting me steal all your group shots and candid photos! *salutes*)<br /><br />- Jonathan learned how to pronounce debut at last. I'M SO PROUD.<br /><br />- Pizza is good. Pizza with writers is better.<br /><br />- REALM MAKERS WAS FABULOUS. THIS POST IS HUMONGOUS. END OF STORY.<br /><br />Um. So I hope you enjoyed this post <strike>two months late.</strike>&nbsp;It took me aaaaaaages to write, let me tell you. I had an amazing experience at RM and miss all my friends. &lt;3 SERIOUSLY RELIVING IT ALL RIGHT NOW AND GETTING ALL EMOTIONAL.<br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />Well, did you survive this enormous post? If so, have some cookies. *hands you some* Will you be going to Realm Makers 2018? (They just announced that it's in St. Louis next summer!) Maybe we'll see each other there next time!</h4></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-59098879586650487462017-09-22T07:00:00.000-04:002017-09-22T07:00:25.130-04:00A Hobbit-ish Celebration // Frodo & Bilbo's Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-75l-hzZSRmo/WcRgL1zaLCI/AAAAAAAAFcU/a-y9qHeem0U9PN1AwZ4DhBrl_GnGTIUKACLcBGAs/s1600/a%2Bhobbit-ish%2Bcelebration%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfrodo%2B%2526%2Bbilbo%2527s%2Bbirthday%2521.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-75l-hzZSRmo/WcRgL1zaLCI/AAAAAAAAFcU/a-y9qHeem0U9PN1AwZ4DhBrl_GnGTIUKACLcBGAs/s1600/a%2Bhobbit-ish%2Bcelebration%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfrodo%2B%2526%2Bbilbo%2527s%2Bbirthday%2521.png" /></a></div><i><br /></i><i>Just for those I haven't informed yet...we have made it home from NC! Our house only sustained minor damage, thank goodness, and we are slowly trying to get back to a normal schedule. (I'm struggling a lot with this for whatever reason. *sighs*) I'm also feeling a lot better now, though I'm left with this nasty drainage. :P ANYWAY. Thought you all might want an update. *salutes and ducks out*</i><br /><i><br /></i>Greetings, my friends! Today we are gathered to commemorate the ongoing legacy of two of the most beloved characters of all time. Care to guess who they are?<br /><br /><b><i>Because they're obviously blind and couldn't read the title of the post.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b>You know, you really should get a hobby, Lieutenant. Being the Person Who Inserts Annoying Comments at Birthday&nbsp;Parties isn't exactly a title that rolls off the tongue.<br /><br /><b><i>What about the Most Dashing Person in History? That seems to fit.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b>*grits teeth in fake smile* Yeah. Sure. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Anything to shut you up.)</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Ooooookay then. Today is Frodo and Bilbo's birthday! These two brave hobbits both accomplished amazing feats (with the help of friends) and their legacies live on even now. In honor of their special day, I have decided to do a Lord of the Rings post.<br /><br /><b><i>So impressive. *yawns*</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b>This whole week is actually Tolkien Week, and <a href="https://theedgeoftheprecipice.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hamlette </a>is throwing a smashing party over at her blog. As today is the culmination of all the festivities, I am participating in the fun little tag Hamlette created. Prepare for looooots of fangirling. ;)<br /><br /><h4>1. How long have you been a Tolkien fan?</h4><div><br /></div><div>I first discovered the movies (yes, I saw them first; don't you dare judge me, Lizzy) back on January 10, 2014. And the reason I remember the exact date? Well...they were pretty memorable movies. (Plus it was a Big Deal for me to watch them so the date is burned into my brain.)</div><div><br /></div><div>I loved them even after my first viewing, but it took a second time for them to really sink in and take the hallowed spot as my favorite movie series of all time. After that, there was no turning back.</div><div><br /><h4>2. Has your love of Middle-earth affected your life?</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>A THOUSAND TIMES YES. Middle-earth is my home. It's like a piece of my heart was bound into these tales long ago, and I'm more complete now that I've found it. &nbsp;They are, hands-down, one of the most influential stories in my life.</div><div><br /><h4>3. If you had to take the One Ring to Mordor, which character would you choose for your sole companion?</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>I was about to say Legolas, but...I honestly feel that would be awkward? We're both quiet and it would just be weird between us. (Especially since I would just spend 99.785% of the time just staring at his flawless hair. #potentiallyawkward)</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd probably have to go with Gandalf. Not because he's my favorite character, per se, but because I'd be least likely to die (whether from orcs or awkwardness) with him around. And he's pretty awesome. He would make me feel a lot safer than if I had just one hobbit with me. ;)</div><div><br /><h4>4. Which is scarier, Shelob or the Balrog?</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>SHELOB. *burrows under covers and shivers* We hates spiders, precious.</div><div><br /><h4>5. Which two towers do you think Tolkien was referring to in the title The Two Towers? (i.e. Orthanc, Barad-dûr, Cirith Ungol, Minas Morgul, or Minas Tirith)</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>I've always thought it was Orthanc and Barad-dûr, like a lot of people have said, but Hamlette's answer made a lot of sense. Tolkien could have meant Barad-dûr and Minas Tirith, as the two were kind of the "light vs. darkness" towers.</div><h4><br />6. Whose wardrobe would you like to have?</h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UIr7BgKO9Sk/WcSFkeFgcSI/AAAAAAAAFdY/jcMFypl9NNMAkUs7eo0fpjxFiZEFP-9jgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/ccee56d5875303fe453eb724dfe8beb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UIr7BgKO9Sk/WcSFkeFgcSI/AAAAAAAAFdY/jcMFypl9NNMAkUs7eo0fpjxFiZEFP-9jgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/ccee56d5875303fe453eb724dfe8beb3.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/550002173216793155/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBdwVgHI-Wo/WcSF-zrrWcI/AAAAAAAAFdg/F1aQ1HDVJh8RD0i_iri1ALs9Z-cRpIqMACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/3d682880937c19b48a95c148361edf78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBdwVgHI-Wo/WcSF-zrrWcI/AAAAAAAAFdg/F1aQ1HDVJh8RD0i_iri1ALs9Z-cRpIqMACK4BGAYYCw/s320/3d682880937c19b48a95c148361edf78.jpg" width="190" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/254523816410096207/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wK9K-zikvNU/WcSGKY0ZYQI/AAAAAAAAFdo/gnvx1qecqv8X1-rWspYLLzSHYqCgpQ_JgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/749eea959ffdcb93a15259dc1ccb4d34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wK9K-zikvNU/WcSGKY0ZYQI/AAAAAAAAFdo/gnvx1qecqv8X1-rWspYLLzSHYqCgpQ_JgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/749eea959ffdcb93a15259dc1ccb4d34.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/490329478159148488/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb0VN0hszkQ/WcSGWzqEmKI/AAAAAAAAFdw/hhXkG-R3-c0E1PJYhUyp-ZuCnWFpZEaIQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/919e51f49b76a6c717d5eafe8f1212de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb0VN0hszkQ/WcSGWzqEmKI/AAAAAAAAFdw/hhXkG-R3-c0E1PJYhUyp-ZuCnWFpZEaIQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/919e51f49b76a6c717d5eafe8f1212de.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/423408802449986345/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vih52lH5KaA/WcSG-FcSadI/AAAAAAAAFd8/Dgr5AO7UZOANj3uzdlI579ZyGOdSxngCgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/53c50dbbc45719bd8ca0b1df0bb6a8fb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vih52lH5KaA/WcSG-FcSadI/AAAAAAAAFd8/Dgr5AO7UZOANj3uzdlI579ZyGOdSxngCgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/53c50dbbc45719bd8ca0b1df0bb6a8fb.jpg" width="222" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/383720830721426313/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div>Need I say more??</div><div><br /></div><div>But also this.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hy_3yw-mG_s/WcSLo03B8oI/AAAAAAAAFeI/W3uBk8l8ADYV8THsY-XaW2fh2C_9JzpGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/646af7a787581973e41e124c11649076.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hy_3yw-mG_s/WcSLo03B8oI/AAAAAAAAFeI/W3uBk8l8ADYV8THsY-XaW2fh2C_9JzpGACK4BGAYYCw/s320/646af7a787581973e41e124c11649076.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To be honest, I would also be completely satisfied with Bilbo's fabulous wardrobe.</div><h4><br />7. What do you think an Ent Draught would taste like?</h4><div><br /></div><div>*squints* Um. Like dirt? Leaves? Grass? Tree bark?</div><div><br /></div><div>(Or is that considered cannibalism?)</div><div><br /><h4>8. Where in Middle-earth would you like to live?</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>TAKE ME TO RIVENDELL PLEASE OKAY THANKS. &lt;3 I want to I peruse Elrond's library and take walks along the bridges with the waterfalls flowing behind me and sit amongst the autumnal colors and just <i>breathe.&nbsp;</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I adore Rivendell. (Though the Shire is lovely...I would love to live there if the Elves got tired of me. *winks*)</div><div><br /><h4>9. Do you have any Tolkien-related opinions that surprise other people?</h4></div><div><br /></div><div>Oh yay. Controversial issues time! Time to lose some friends...</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlQRURKLP5Y/WcSDr8lpeOI/AAAAAAAAFcs/jbaUZ3HJp5odrV4C5B006y9QUbIb9c2VQCLcBGAs/s1600/e6ce3449986afe6eb1febbce79befc0e.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="245" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlQRURKLP5Y/WcSDr8lpeOI/AAAAAAAAFcs/jbaUZ3HJp5odrV4C5B006y9QUbIb9c2VQCLcBGAs/s320/e6ce3449986afe6eb1febbce79befc0e.gif" width="237" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458663543287213245/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /><b>1) I actually...don't <i>love </i>the LotR books?</b> I've only read FotR so far, but it was frankly one of the hardest books I've ever read. I still enjoyed it, but it was significantly less engaging than the movies. I don't think I would have liked the book if I hadn't seen the movies first. (Weird but true.)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2) I like the Hobbit movies. </b>*cue gasps from the book purists* YES, IT'S TRUE. I do like the movies! I thought they were great, although I like the book more, ironically. They're both wonderful in their own ways.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3) I don't care for Faramir that much, but I like Boromir.</b>&nbsp;I don't have much to say about this except, um, I just don't get the obsession I've seen with Faramir? Sure, he's a good character, and I don't <i>dislike </i>him, but I've just never been a huge fan for whatever reason. However, I love how Boromir's character was done and feel 1000% protective of him. A lot of people I know perceive him as "evil" or "inferior" for falling to temptation, but guys...he's so much more than one bad decision. His relationship with the hobbits melts my heart, and I love his relationship with Faramir. (See? You don't have to disown me...right? *pleading look*)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>4) I love Frodo.</b> I just do. In <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2016/05/my-top-5-favorite-lord-of-rings.html" target="_blank">my top 5 favorite LotR character post</a>, I discussed why more in-depth, but the short version? <b>He's a hero. </b>Although people say Sam is the "real hero"...I'd say that's only partially true. They both needed <i>each</i> <i>other</i>, and Frodo is arguably one of the strongest characters in the series.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><h4><br />10. List up to ten of your favorite lines/quotations from the books or movies.</h4><div><br /></div><div>Stealing all my answers from <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2016/09/happy-hobbit-day-tolkien-tag-2016.html" target="_blank">last year's tag</a> because I'm extremely resourceful.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>The proper term is lazy.</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>NOT YOU AGAIN. Be quiet or I'll send Legolas after you. He never misses. *warning glare*</div><div><br /></div><div>Like I said, I'm using all the quotes from the tag that I completed for last year's party. They're all from the movie versions, mostly because I don't know many of the book-ones by heart.</div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Even the smallest person can change the course of the future."&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Some believe it is only great power that can keep evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I have found that it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"I would rather share one lifetime with you than spend all the ages of this world alone."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Anyway, you need people of intelligence of this sort of mission...quest...thing."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"There's some good in this world, Mr. Frodo. And it's worth fighting for."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." (Okay, this is actually a different one from last time.)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Go back to your books, your fireplace. Plant your trees, watch them grow. If more of us valued home above gold, it would be a merrier world."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"A wizard is never late, Frodo. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to."&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Not all those who wander are lost."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"You left out one of the chief characters--Samwise the Brave. I want to hear more about Sam. Frodo wouldn't have gotten far without Sam."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Now, Mr. Frodo, you shouldn't make fun. I was being serious."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"So was I."</i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>/ / /&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">*is sitting here contentedly staring at all the quotes* I LOVE THESE STORIES SO MUCH. &lt;33</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And so, we are here, at the end of all things. I'm a few friends shorter, a few hours older (news flash: this post took hours to write), and a few degrees more in love with Lord of the Rings than I was before.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But wait! There's more. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Yes, I lied. Very un-Christian of me. :P)&nbsp;</span>Because my brain is dead and I can't come up with anything creative, you get some bonus Lord of the Rings videos like last year.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3KmXPcSxz2g/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3KmXPcSxz2g?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This one is particularly funny if you've seen Harry Potter (I have not), but it's still pretty hilarious otherwise. Studio C is ingenious, guys. GO WATCH THEM.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qOw44VFNk8Y/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qOw44VFNk8Y?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">AND THIS. AS IF I NEEDED ANOTHER REASON TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This post is all over the place, but I hope it's somewhat entertaining. (That's my goal. To entertain the world with my enlightening presence--oh dear, Lieutenant Bradshaw is being a bad influence. *side-glare*)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY DEAR HOBBITS!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ask38AJblmQ/WcSX_Rs7RmI/AAAAAAAAFeY/4rKe8-1_Rk0TRbeMgkbQgnUnrM1K5VvhgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/9ac29a6781a06e354fbc96a98e1a7c5b.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ask38AJblmQ/WcSX_Rs7RmI/AAAAAAAAFeY/4rKe8-1_Rk0TRbeMgkbQgnUnrM1K5VvhgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/9ac29a6781a06e354fbc96a98e1a7c5b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />Happy Hobbit Day, my friends! What are some of your favorite LotR quotes? Whose wardrobe would you steal if you could? AND where in Middle-earth would you reside? (Pick the Shire so I can visit you.)</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-76337690054913101742017-09-16T00:28:00.002-04:002017-09-16T00:28:40.812-04:00L I F E U P D A T E // Hurricanes + Other Craziness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDqAHKjBbQs/Wbsqw9COyFI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/IeswkyKuQfwFc__ec46E6hHX-WMXdzI2wCLcBGAs/s1600/life%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bhurricanes%2B%252B%2Bchaotic%2Bemotions.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDqAHKjBbQs/Wbsqw9COyFI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/IeswkyKuQfwFc__ec46E6hHX-WMXdzI2wCLcBGAs/s1600/life%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bhurricanes%2B%252B%2Bchaotic%2Bemotions.png" /></a></div><br />As I'm typing this, we're currently in North Carolina because of Hurricane Irma. (For a few more hours anyway...we leave Saturday morning.) A lot of you probably know about this, but we had to evacuate due to the hurricane.<br /><br />It was a massive storm. Supposedly one of the biggest storms ever in recorded history, Irma topped with wind speeds at 185 mph. It. Was. Insane. High winds combined with an impressive width. It was twice the width of our state!<br /><br />With the forecasts originally showing it headed right towards us, we scrambled to put up shutters, secure items in and out of the house, and get packed for an evacuation. It was very stressful, and I admit that I was a little scared for our home and for all the people we know here. I wondered, once again, whether or not my house would still be standing. Whether I would see my books again. (One of the first thoughts that entered my head. #bookdragonforlife)<br /><br />Thankfully, we were able to get out in time. The roads were insane. It took us twice the amount of time to drive to NC, and we were all exhausted after getting up at 3:30 am to get on the road. But it was truly a miracle that we made it. There were reports on the news of places being completely out of gas, but we managed to find it whenever we needed it. <b>God truly worked a miracle.</b><br /><br />Watching the weather on TV was rather surreal. We would see the radar images of the massive hurricane, hear about how it practically annihilated islands in its path. <b>And it wasn't slowing down.</b><br /><br />The models gradually shifted the storm away from where we lived, but that didn't mean we didn't feel the impacts. Our power went out at home for several days, and there was some exterior damage. We still don't know what the interior looks like.<br /><br />Still, seeing the footage of homes in ruins, floods ravaging entire cities, wind blowing off roofs like it was nothing...it was shocking. <b>That could have been us. </b>That could have been people I know.<br /><br />But God was gracious and protected us from this horrible devastation. We are safe, and that's the most important thing.<br /><br />However, I can't help but hurt for all the people who lost everything. There are so many people affected by this storm, and my heart goes out to them all. Because I know what it feels like to be afraid. I've been down that road.<br /><br />For all those impacted by Irma, I just want to say that you're in my prayers. I can't pretend to know exactly how you feel. I didn't lose a home. I didn't lose a friend or family member.<br /><br />But I know how it feels to be afraid. <b>And I care for all of you. </b>&lt;3<br /><br />While we are now safe, I still have all the stress of college homework, on top of feeling miserably ill. I feel better today, but I was running a temperature of 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit...so I basically felt like death. :P It's been really, <i>really </i>hard to stay afloat with homework in the midst of my dad's health problems, a major hurricane, and the worst illness I've had in years.<br /><br />Life has been hard lately. I'm not gonna lie and say that my world is full of rainbow butterflies and sparkles. But even amidst all these chaotic emotions and less-than-ideal circumstances, I have a God who is bigger than any storm. Any fear. Any doubt.<br /><b><br /></b> <b>He's holding onto me.</b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the random update post. I don't want to come across like I'm complaining all the time, but I feel like I owe you a bit of an explanation for my absence lately. I'd like to get back to posting regularly eventually; I just don't think that's a viable option right now.</h4><div>P.S. For a more eloquent post...check out <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-eye-of-storm.html" target="_blank">my last experience with a hurricane</a>. (I didn't feel like a deranged squirrel when I wrote that so that's why it's actually coherent.)</div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-35930509216413039222017-08-29T07:00:00.000-04:002017-08-29T07:00:21.726-04:00The Great Birthday Bash // feat. Me, Myself, and Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrK0pafJkvM/WaRTNLTrLNI/AAAAAAAAFYk/c_CLX7meKvgCmWCJU0ichjkROOlFsXpuwCLcBGAs/s1600/the%2Bgreat%2Bbirthday%2Bbash%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfeat.%2Bme%252C%2Bmyself%252C%2Band%2Bcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vrK0pafJkvM/WaRTNLTrLNI/AAAAAAAAFYk/c_CLX7meKvgCmWCJU0ichjkROOlFsXpuwCLcBGAs/s1600/the%2Bgreat%2Bbirthday%2Bbash%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bfeat.%2Bme%252C%2Bmyself%252C%2Band%2Bcake.png" /></a></div><br />I'M BACK!!! *pops through the ceiling* Um...I apparently disappeared for over two weeks? I blame this all on school and the craziness of life (which I might talk about sometime--maybe).<br /><div><br /></div><div>If you didn't even notice I was gone...that's okay. I'll get over it. Eventually. *sniffles* :P</div><div><br /></div><div>It just so happens that today is a special day. No, not the anniversary of the invention of chocolate. (Though that's arguably more important.) (But anyway.)</div><div><br /></div><div>IT'S MY BIRTHDAY! *customary glitter explosion*</div><div><br /></div><div>This may seem like a terribly narcissistic post, but if you think about it, it's really not. (Well, mostly. *cough*) I mean, people throw birthday parties for themselves all the time and the invitees usually feel obligated to bring that person presents. So yeah. That makes this seem mild in comparison. ;)&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway. I'm not doing this just so everyone knows it's my birthday. (I mean, you already <i>remember </i>that from last year...don't you?? *squints suspiciously*) I'm just doing this because I had such a fun time putting together a birthday celebration last year.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Oh sure. Because that's </i>totally <i>believable.</i></b></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>*groans* Who invited YOU, Lieutenant?</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><i><b>I don't need an invitation, love. I just naturally assumed everyone would be flattered with my presence.</b></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Naturally. *rolls eyes*</div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>Well, don't let me interrupt your egotistical celebration of your birth. This shall be quite the interesting show.</b></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>It's <i>not </i>egotist--oh, never mind. You wouldn't listen to my reasoning anyway.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>*grins*</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><h4 style="text-align: center;">// Q&amp;A //</h4><div><br /></div>Since this went so well last year, I decided to bring back the Q&amp;A idea! (Very original. I'm a very original person.) My <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2016/09/q-post.html" target="_blank">birthday Q&amp;A post</a> is actually the most-viewed post on my blog so I guess everyone liked it. *shrugs*<br /><br />Anywho! Shoot me all your questions, o bookdragons! (But don't actually shoot me because that would hurt.)<br /><br /><b><i>Way to ruin the fun.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Ahem. *withering glare in character's direction* In addition to the Q&amp;A, I also have a few other festivities planned.<br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />// Quiz //</h4><br />I put together a fun little "how well do you know me?" quiz. Basically, it's a test to see how good of a stalker you are.<br /><br />http://www.quizyourfriends.com/take-quiz.php?id=1708281202288089&amp;lnk&amp;<br /><br />I tried to do a fancy quiz through Typeform, but they had to make all the features I needed <i>not part of the free account. </i>*grumbles* So you get a lame link instead. xD<br /><br /><b><i>A lame link to a lame quiz. It fits.</i></b><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b>// Music //</h4><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>So you remember how I got a ukulele recently? Well, I recorded a bit of me playing "I See the Light" from Tangled and "Rainbow Veins" by Owl City on my uke! I guess they kind of count as covers? I didn't do the entire songs because *cough* <span style="font-size: x-small;">the chords are too hard</span>&nbsp;but at least you get a glimpse at my terrible skills. I will most likely regret sharing these videos...<br /><br /><b><i>Look at that, you actually made a correct statement. *claps*</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Oh wow, you actually made yet another annoying comment. Look at you.<br /><br /><b><i>I'm very skilled in that department.</i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b> Apparently.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="480" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9Vssw0BQrCyMXRJR19ucWJLSlB1Tkc4VEhYTzZpRExyMzFj/preview" width="550"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="480" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9Vssw0BQrCyRmMwbHp2NlQtYnY1eEJTNU9HdDZGTk9OZEFJ/preview" width="550"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A few things:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">a) Yes, I do realize I'm singing super quietly. THERE'S A REASON. xD</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">b) D7, G7, and E7 chords are the worst. (Thus my failure during the chord transitions...hehe.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">c) Again, terrible video quality. I promise I'll give you a decent video one of these days.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">// Writing //</h4><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Because for some reason, this cake shop scene I wrote in Moonlit Mirror popped in my head. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(This post is so random. *uncertain chuckle*)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><br />She shoved open the door to the shop and was hit straight-on by the scent of orange and vanilla. She inhaled deeply, letting the aroma ease her frustration. With a sigh, she allowed herself to take in her surroundings. It was quite a bit smaller than she had thought, based on the exterior. Dozens of shelves lined every spare inch of wall space, and each one was filled with cakes of every imaginable variety. Quadruple layer chocolate cakes, leaning blue and pink towers of frosting (with what she assumed was cake somewhere underneath it), and miniature loaves oozing purple berries. There was a white cart rolled into the center of the room. It was laden with sprinkles, glitter, and strange glowing stars.<br /><br />Charlotte took a step toward the cart, but her foot slipped on the slick tile. Gasping, she flailed her arms in a desperate attempt to steady herself.<br /><br /><i>Thud. </i>She fell onto her backside, her skirts poofing in the air like a hot air balloon. She groaned and struggled to her feet. That was the second time in three days that she had fallen down and made a fool of herself. <i>At least no one saw me this time.</i><br /><br />“Ah, g’day, Miss Davidson!”<br /><br />Charlotte jumped and noticed with dismay that a man in a stained smock was standing right in front of her, smiling expectantly. She attempted to smooth out her skirts, only to realize that they were smeared with icing. She winced. <i>I don’t even want to know how much of it is on my backside…</i><br /><br />She cleared her voice and attempted to salvage what little dignity she had left. “Good day, sir.”<br /><br />“Oh dear, I’m terribly sorry about the frosting.” The tall lanky man bent over and began to wipe the floor with her skirts. She jerked them out of his hands in horror.<br /><br />“What do you think you’re doing?” she demanded.<br /><br />He blushed and fumbled with a rag in his smock’s pocket. “Sorry, sorry. So terribly sorry. Dreadfully sorry, madam.”<br /><br />He uttered about five more apologies before Charlotte finally grew impatient. “We’ve already established that you’re sorry.”<br /><br />“Oh, I am sorry.”<br /><br />“<i>I know!</i>”<br /><br />He finished wiping the pink confection off the tile and awkwardly ran a hand through his wild shocks of blond. “You must think me terribly oafish. I’m sor—I mean, I didn’t wish to inconvenience you, Miss Davidson.”<br /><br />Charlotte crossed her arms. “How do you know my name?”<br /><br />The man adjusted round spectacles on his nose, his eyes growing wide in realization. “Oh! That!” He chuckled. “Lieutenant Bradshaw informed me of your need for a cake. He said you would be coming down shortly.”<br /><br />Oh, splendid. Now she had the Lieutenant watching her every move.<br /><br />“Is there any particular cake you would like?”<br /><br />Charlotte shoved her annoyance aside and turned her attention back to the peculiar worker. “What do you have?”<br /><br />He shrugged. “I don’t know. What do you want?”<br /><br />She exhaled sharply and forced a smile. “Perhaps I could tell you if you described your menu.”<br /><br />The spectacled man scratched his wild head of hair. “Oh dear…but I’m afraid you don’t quite understand. I have to know what you want before I can tell you what I have.”<br /><br />“What on this blasted earth are you talking about?”<br /><br />He shrugged and set to wiping the floor again with her skirts. She yanked them out of his furiously-scrubbing hands and received another round of apologies.<br /><br />“The floor’s already clean.”<br /><br />He laughed nervously. “Oh, I thought so. I was just making sure.”<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /&nbsp;</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Figures that you wouldn't include a snippet with </i>me <i>in it.</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>Sorry, I didn't want to give everyone nausea.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>I'm quite sure they already have it after reading this disastrous post.</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>*sticks out tongue*</div><div><br /></div><div>That concludes my birthday celebration post for this year! I hope you all enjoyed my kind-of-but-not-really-narcissistic post.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Now...GO FORTH AND EAT CAKE.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsjmYnRimuA/WaRcQ_Rgi1I/AAAAAAAAFZE/KurgHOMhkWwvmPUT0LiU-GI1cPsKHU6LgCLcBGAs/s1600/Cake%2BGIF.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="384" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsjmYnRimuA/WaRcQ_Rgi1I/AAAAAAAAFZE/KurgHOMhkWwvmPUT0LiU-GI1cPsKHU6LgCLcBGAs/s320/Cake%2BGIF.gif" width="320" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />Well, I hope that you actually DIDN'T get nausea from this post. It was a lot of fun to put together (even with all the annoying side-comments from the Lieutenant. :P) What's your favorite cake flavor? What questions do you want me to answer in the Q&amp;A?</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-19259992692151716212017-08-10T18:30:00.001-04:002017-08-10T18:40:59.004-04:00Book Review: A Name Unknown {Roseanna M. White}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcawwTXwOBs/WYtr8xwWMtI/AAAAAAAAFMA/cfk5-Rr1kPAXL0yrKhiWiDNUEtqd5q_VwCLcBGAs/s1600/book%2Breview-%2Ba%2Bname%2Bunknown%2B%257Broseanna%2Bm.%2Bwhite%257D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TcawwTXwOBs/WYtr8xwWMtI/AAAAAAAAFMA/cfk5-Rr1kPAXL0yrKhiWiDNUEtqd5q_VwCLcBGAs/s1600/book%2Breview-%2Ba%2Bname%2Bunknown%2B%257Broseanna%2Bm.%2Bwhite%257D.png" /></a></div><br />Just as promised in last week's post, I am reviewing another book today! It's that gorgeous book with the library on the cover...and trust me, the inside is just as good as the outside of the book.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Allow me to present <i>A Name Unknown </i>by Roseanna M. White!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3K3VlfR8_aI/WYtnTPJBQII/AAAAAAAAFL4/0F5ZF8ikSQodNVc48gsa59L6OtRMx6iHACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3K3VlfR8_aI/WYtnTPJBQII/AAAAAAAAFL4/0F5ZF8ikSQodNVc48gsa59L6OtRMx6iHACK4BGAYYCw/s320/A%2BName%2BUnkown%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Find this book on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32497002-a-name-unknown" target="_blank">Goodreads </a>&amp; <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Name-Shadows-Over-England/dp/076421926X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&amp;qid=&amp;sr=" target="_blank">Amazon</a>!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div>What does one say about perfection?<br /><br />This book is a winner, friends. Even by looking at the cover, I had the feeling this book was going to be good (because duh, any book with <i>books </i>on the cover HAS to be good).<br /><br />But the cover was just the beginning...<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">/ / Lovely Things / /</span></i></b></div><b><i><br /></i></b> Hahaha...haha...ha.<br /><br />Do you even want to get into the infinite reasons why I love this book?<br /><br />- <b>Rosemary. </b>First off, you know a book is good when you have to devote separate categories for each character. I haven't done this in a while, BUT THESE CHARACTERS ARE SO WONDERFUL THAT I HAVE TO.<br /><br />Rosemary is a complex character with intricate motivations. She's a thief, and she's been charged with the job of a lifetime: to steal someone's very name. She heads out to Peter's estate with the intent of proving him a traitor to Germany. Of course, Interesting Things happen when she has to put on the facade of being a librarian in order to work there. *winks*<br /><br />Rosie's just one of those characters you <i>have</i>&nbsp;to love. Sure, she has her rough edges--boy, does she--but that's what makes her so real. She's spunky, witty, opinionated, often blunt. But also soft-hearted, compassionate, and loyal. As one character so perfectly puts it, "Delicate when it suits you. Strong always." (TRUTH)<br /><br />Not to mention she's just hilarious all around and lands a pretty solid punch. ;)<br /><br />- <b>Peter. </b>*cue the flailing* If ever there was a character I would marry...it's Peter Holstein. NOT EVEN KIDDING.<br /><br />(Now if only he were a little younger. *grumbles because he's thirty* XD)<br /><br />Peter is so. darn. <i>nice. </i>Don't get me wrong, I looooooove me some snarky antiheroes...but there's a part of my heart that will forever adore the sweet, gentlemanly type. And Peter perfectly fits that role. He has a stutter (which, frankly, is <i>really endearing</i>); he has a MASSIVE, SWOONWORTHY LIBRARY; and he writes. HE WRITES. *cue more flailing*<br /><br />He's considered by most to be a recluse, and the popular opinion is that he's a German sympathizer. (Ughh. Really, people? Just because of his <i>name?</i>) Due to the imminent threat of war, he realizes that his heritage could cause quite a few problems for him if he doesn't find a way to prove his loyalty to Britain. Not only that, but if anyone finds out he's the famous adventure novelist, it may tarnish his reputation as a writer. Allllll the complex motivations, folks. *rubs hands together*<br /><br />Over the course of the book, my heart just is completely lost to Peter. What with his teasing banter with his friends Gryff and Rosemary, his sweet interactions with sweet Elowyn, his caring concern for...well, everyone, and his wonderful faith in God, he's just THE BEST.<br /><br />Of course, he has his flaws--namely never paying attention to people when he's writing (#relatable) and getting a little irritable at times. Haha! But he really is one of my new favorite characters. HE'S JUST A PRECIOUS LITTLE HUMAN BEAN AND I LOVES HIM.<br /><br />- <b>The people. </b>Yes, I know I just talked about two people very in-depth. But this deserves being mentioned separately. The people that populate this novel are so <i>alive.</i>&nbsp;Roseanna White certainly does an incredible job with breathing life into this novel. Rosemary's family. The villagers. The household staff. The royal family. They're all so real and marvelously done!<br /><br />- <b>THE BOOKS. </b>YES, PRECIOUS. ALL THE BOOKS. I about died of happiness with the library stuff, all the writers mentioned, and the bookish discussions. It was bookdragon heaven.<br /><br />- <b>The plot. </b>*points up to blurb* Need I say more?<br /><br />- <b>The themes. </b>This is really important to me as a reader, to have books that stick with me after I read them. WELL. <i>A Name Unknown</i>&nbsp;certainly does just that. Rosemary's journey to faith is incredibly poignant, and it brought me to tears at a couple points. This is probably one of the best-handled faith arcs I've read. Ever.<br /><br />- <b>The rich detail. </b>The author obviously did her research! I loved all the British dialogue (er, most of it), the beautiful descriptions, the entire <i>feel </i>of this book. It legitimately FELT like I was in early-20th century Britain. ME LOVES IT.<br /><br />- <b>The writing style. </b>Yeah, while we're at it, let's just mention that Roseanna's writing style is perfect. Because it is, people. It is. She somehow manages to write a story that doesn't get you lost in the details yet still paints gorgeous pictures. I will admit, I'm a wee bit jealous of Roseanna's mastery of showing vs. telling. This is a book I will undoubtedly reread just to get a glimpse of perfectly engaging writing.<br /><br />- <b>The romance. </b>OH MY GOODNESS. These two = the most darling couple. I know, I know...I say this quite a lot. ;) But I love Peter and Rosemary together so much! They complement each other perfectly, offsetting each other's qualities and helping each other see/correct their weaknesses. Not only that<i>, </i>but their romance is NOT based off externals.Something which I always find extraordinarily refreshing. They don't have an insta-love story either. They start off a little rockily, but slowly become friends over the months they know each other.<br /><br />(The short version: they are precious.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">/ / Not So Lovely Things / /</span></i></b></div><b><i><br /></i></b> - You thought you were actually going to see something in this section? WELL, THINK AGAIN.<br /><br />- (Okay, I lied. :P) Some of the British terminology got a little old, and I felt that the plot wound down a bit too quickly. BUT that honestly didn't detract much at all from my enjoyment of the book! Just a few personal preferences.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><br />CONTENT: Lots of British "cursing." (Blazes, blighted, blasted, dratted, etc.) I don't personally consider it swearing, but it might bother some people. Characters share one semi-detailed kiss and three or four undetailed ones near the end. There are two kisses on the cheek, one kiss on the hand. Also brief mentions of mistresses a couple times, though nothing is gotten into. I would probably recommend it those 14 or 15+, mostly just because of the depth of writing/little bit of romance.<br /><br />I think it's safe to say that I love this book. AND I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL. *glitter explosion* This author has made an impression on me, and it's a good one.<br /><b><br /><i>I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.</i></b><br /><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">5 stars!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b> (Find my review on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2030362546" target="_blank">Goodreads </a>and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Name-Shadows-Over-England/product-reviews/076421926X/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_ttl?ie=UTF8&amp;reviewerType=all_reviews&amp;sortBy=recent#R37MWIOO4KXWUK" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.)<br /><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Hope you enjoyed this review! (And didn't mind all my flailing over a Certain Character. *coughs*) Have you read this book? BECAUSE YOU SHOULD. What is your favorite kind of character to read about?</span></h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-19077693911826778872017-08-04T12:56:00.001-04:002017-08-04T12:56:12.132-04:00Summer '17 Vlog // Giveaway Winner + Book Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PqZHLMBF5Rc/WYShT75SaeI/AAAAAAAAFHQ/Nc62Tu-rikEwBJHjOLvx9GvvB7NDYNAEgCLcBGAs/s1600/summer%2B%252717%2Bvlog%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bgiveaway%2Bwinner%2B%252B%2Bbook%2Bhaul.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PqZHLMBF5Rc/WYShT75SaeI/AAAAAAAAFHQ/Nc62Tu-rikEwBJHjOLvx9GvvB7NDYNAEgCLcBGAs/s1600/summer%2B%252717%2Bvlog%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bgiveaway%2Bwinner%2B%252B%2Bbook%2Bhaul.png" /></a></div><i><br /></i> <i>(We're just pretending that this was posted on Thursday, not Friday. Okay? *quietly backs away*)</i><br /><i><br /></i> Greetings, bookdragons of the internet! Today I bring tidings of great joy!<br /><br /><b>...Or sorrow, depending on how much they like seeing your face.</b><br /><b><br /></b> *glares at Lieutenant Bradshaw* As I was saying, today I'm bringing you all a vlog! It's been a long time since I've done one, so I thought it would be a nice change.<br /><br /><b>Actually, you're wrong. It would be a horrible change.</b><br /><b><br /></b> Just...stop. You always ruin everything.<br /><br /><b>Well, excuse me for speaking truthfully here. I wasn't aware that freedom of speech didn't exist on your blog. Though I guess it's not much of a shocker really.</b><br /><b><br /></b> WILL YOU PLEASE BE QUIET? *sighs* Just ignore Lieutenant Bradshaw, everyone. He's rather annoying at times.<br /><br /><b>Someone has to make it more interesting around here, you know.</b><br /><b><br /></b> Back to my original thought. *taps chin* Oh! Yes! The vlog! It's been about 9 months now since I've recorded a vlog, and I just spontaneously decided to do one at midnight.<br /><br /><b>Totally logical.</b><br /><b><br /></b> I mentioned <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/07/camp-nano-july-17-w-e-e-k-4-update-10.html" target="_blank">last week</a> that nobody actually guessed the two lies for my <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/07/10-truths-and-2-lies-vol-2.html" target="_blank">10 Truths and 2 Lies</a> challenge...buuuuut I decided I was going to pick a winner anyway. I put everyone's names in a hat, shook them around, and picked the person lucky enough to receive a prize.<br /><br /><b>I think the correct term is <i>un</i>lucky.</b><br /><b><br /></b> I'm just pretending you don't exist.<br /><br /><b>Go ahead and ignore reality. That's one of your best skills anyway.</b><br /><b><br /></b> *sighs angrily* What are you doing here, anyway? You should be sitting in the unstarted draft of a sequel.<br /><br /><b>Ahh, so you <i>are </i>writing a sequel? This is news to me.</b><br /><b><br /></b> It depends how well you cooperate. If you don't shut up, I might just never continue your story.<br /><br /><b>Eh. I could care less.</b><br /><b><br /></b> Or I could kill you in the first chapter of the sequel. Whichever you prefer.<br /><br /><b>*grumbles* All right, evil author. You win.</b><br /><b><br /></b> *victorious smile* Thank you.<br /><br />Now before the world's most annoying lieutenant decides to appear again, I should get onto the vlog. I drew the name of the giveaway winner (YAY!!) and rambled on about books I've purchased/borrowed/received for review lately. SO YEAH. This is just me being random essentially.<br /><br /><iframe height="360" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9Vssw0BQrCyenZUUHpJWkt5LUk/preview" width="550"></iframe> <br /><br />Um. Hopefully that wasn't too bad?<br /><br /><b>Don't worry, it was.</b><br /><b><br /></b> Go. Away. Right. Now.<br /><br /><b>*clears throat and steps out of room*</b><br /><b><br /></b> I hope that you at least partially enjoyed the vlog! I know I rambled quite a bit, haha. I <i>promise </i>there will be a Realm Makers recap post coming soon! (But maybe not a Camp NaNo recap post. All you really need to know is that I lowered my goal--<i>again</i>--to 10k. And I reached it! YAY! This is kind of a big deal since I had such a crazy month in July. *shrugs*)<br /><br />ALSO. I'm having issues with spam bots subscribing to my blog. Anybody ever had that happen? I'm trying to figure out a way to add a CAPTCHA to the "subscribe by email" gadget. Or to completely change out that gadget and replace it with something else. Basically, I need tech help. Please. XD<br /><br />I also wanted to let you know that I'm not sure how frequently I'll be blogging for the unforeseeable future. I <i>want </i>to blog, but I just feel like the quality of my posts isn't what it should be. I don't know. I may be posting less frequently, I may not. WE'LL JUST HAVE TO SEE. But I really really <i>really </i>want to reply to your comments and produce good posts. So that will probably become the priority in the next few weeks.<br /><br />But hang tight! 'Cause I've got some cool posts headed your way soon. ;)<br /><br /><b>Now all you have to do is stop talking. Then we can get peace and quiet.</b><br /><b><br /></b> I swear, if you say <i>one </i>more snarky comment, I'm going to start plotting your tragic death scene.<br /><br /><b>Sometimes I really hate you.</b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">I hope that a certain character wasn't too distracting for everyone. Ehehe. (I kind of love him, but don't tell him that. *coughs*) Let me know what you thought of the vlog! I will for sure be emailing you, Madeline, and sending you your prize should you desire it. :)</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-71909496441543243352017-07-27T17:21:00.001-04:002017-07-27T17:21:48.768-04:00Camp NaNo July '17 // W E E K 4 Update + 10 Truths and 2 Lies Results<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVVvNLzjo1M/WXpXDsgsjVI/AAAAAAAAFBE/UgDB18t3EtwfoLEo5dPmWdq1fWEml2L1QCLcBGAs/s1600/camp%2Bnano%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bw%2Be%2Be%2Bk%2B4%2Bupdate1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVVvNLzjo1M/WXpXDsgsjVI/AAAAAAAAFBE/UgDB18t3EtwfoLEo5dPmWdq1fWEml2L1QCLcBGAs/s1600/camp%2Bnano%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bw%2Be%2Be%2Bk%2B4%2Bupdate1.png" /></a></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>(Prefacing this by saying I'm at Realm Makers now. *glitter explosion* I'm very excited but very busy...thus the reason for this update post. XD)</i></div><div><br /></div>Look at me, I'm actually doing a Camp NaNo update. *gasps*<br /><div><br /></div><div>To be perfectly honest? <b>There still isn't much to update. </b>This has been one of the busiest months I've ever had--rivaling even the crazy whirlwind that was February. Almost half of the month has/will be spent traveling. We had family visit. I've had some get-togethers with my friend. There was lots of packing. Fourth of July fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>In other words, God has had different plans for me this month...and they did not involve writing.</div><div><br /></div><div>My goal for the month was 20,000 words. And THAT felt low to me before. I've always done crazy NaNos--90k in November, 50k in April. I thought I could handle it. I thought I had it "covered."</div><div><br /></div><div>WELLLL...I didn't.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>My current wordcount: 9,312.&nbsp;</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Even looking at those numbers now, I can't help but feel insufficient. I know it's not true, that I just <i>couldn't </i>write a lot, but a part of me feels like I failed. And that's just...something I continually struggle with.</div><div><br /></div><div>I officially lowered my goal to 11,000 words, almost halving it. Pressing that "submit" button after I changed the word goal was really difficult, honestly.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm an overachiever. I take on waaaaaay more things than I could possibly accomplish, and when I inevitably don't get everything done, <i>I get so frustrated with myself. </i>In fact, <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/2017/07/i-cant-do-it-all.html" target="_blank">I devoted an entire post to this</a> on my other blog. It's a real struggle, guys.</div><div><br /></div><div>This July has been <b>a m a z i n g. </b>But on the flip side, it's also been <b>h a r d. </b>I want to write. I feel like I <i>need </i>to write. But the reality is that I CAN'T. I just can't. Life is too crazy and exciting right now, and that's okay. I'm still trying to come to terms with the fact that it's impossible for me to reach my 20k goal, but I do know that God has other plans for me. AND THEY ARE SO MUCH HIGHER THAN MY OWN.</div><div><br /></div><div>That aside, I do have a bit of an update. Remember how I mentioned switching projects in my last post? My Snow White retelling was just not. working. out. I love the plot, and I know for sure that I'll be picking up the story again. It's just not time to work on it <i>right now</i>. Instead, I started writing a new steampunk short story called Along the Lines of Legerdemain. (Notice the matching titles? ;D) I'm going to be hopefully doing an entire collection of the adventures of Fiona and Steel. THEY ARE JUST TOO FUN.</div><div><br /></div><div>This story is going muuuuch better than Behind the Velvet Curtain, despite the fact that I haven't gotten the chance to write much of it. I LOVE MAH CHARACTERS SO MUCH.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>And with all my talking out of the way, I present to you some snippets! :)</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><i>(I may be a little proud of these first lines. Just sayin'. ;P)</i></div><div><br /></div>It is never very pleasant to wake up to a gun in your face. <br /><br />Fear pulsed through my veins as I stared down the shiny barrel of a pistol. I was completely vulnerable, an easy target for my potential assassin. <br /><br />And whoever was holding the gun had a very good grasp of that concept.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><br />“Border patrol guards,” I muttered. <br /><br />“That’s no problem,” Aerick said. “We’ve gone through the inspections easily in the past. They’ll only arrest you if you’re carrying smuggled cargo.” <br /><br />“Then I think now would be a perfect time to worry.” <br /><br />Aerick paused. His mouth opened, then closed as a light turned on in his eyes. “Fiona, you don’t happen to have any smuggled goods . . . do you?” <br /><br />I coughed and focused on the approaching airships. “Well, it might be a possibility.”</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div>He shrugged and quirked one side of his lip upward. “How fast do you want it to go? This ship happens to be one of the finest of its kind.” </div><br />“Which means it’s a piece of junk.” <br /><br />He gave me the I-will-kill-you-if-you-say-that-again look. “Technically speaking, you’re just an annoying little girl that’s bothered me 363 days of the year for seventeen years, but we’re not being technical, are we?” <br /><br />“You really know how to win a girl’s heart.” I slid into a seat beside him and sneaked a look at the speedometer, its red dial slowly ticking up to fifteen. <i>Fifteen kilometers per hour isn’t going to cut it. </i>I tried to ignore the nagging feeling in my gut. But something told me that the sleeker, newer zeppelins ahead of us could easily outrun us. <br /><br />I raised my eyebrows. “Well, you’re going to have to make our baby run faster than it’s ever run before.” <br /><br />“She will. Trust me.” <br /><br />“You know how much I hate you saying those two words.” <br /><br />Steel managed a wink. “My apologies, Miss McAvay.”<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you enjoyed reading those as much as I did writing them. I always love writing Fiona and Steel's dialogue. XD</div><div><br /></div><div>As the second half of the title suggests, I am also presenting the results of the <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/07/10-truths-and-2-lies-vol-2.html" target="_blank">10 Truths and 2 Lies </a>challenge I had on my blog a couple weeks ago.</div><div><br /></div><div>And the winner is . . .&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>*crickets chirp*&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Um, no one??</div><div><br /></div><div>YEAH. Evidently I made these questions too hard for everyone again. *cracks up* But don't worry, someone WILL get a prize this time! Once I get back from Realm Makers, I'll do a random drawing of your guys' names from a bowl. Whoever gets picked will be contacted for their mailing address and choice of prize.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, what <i>are </i>the two lies, you ask? They are...</div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h4>3) I've never been camping (I ACTUALLY HAVE ONCE...that's a story for another day ;D)</h4><div><br /></div><h4>11) I've eaten a scorpion lollipop <i>(ewwww no way)</i></h4><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I feel kind of bad that I made it this hard, haha. But have no fear: someone will win something this time. ;)</div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />Well, that's it for my last-minute post. I had to do something relatively quick because of Realm Makers (WHICH I'M SO EXCITED FOR *screams*). Tell me: have you ever been camping? What is the weirdest thing you've eaten?</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-13820347246885179692017-07-20T12:14:00.001-04:002017-07-20T12:14:29.315-04:00Book Review: High As the Heavens {Kate Breslin}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V4vUCvWYEnA/WXDUinjP0AI/AAAAAAAAE-o/mrozcCw-nuUcsZh10Yk2RdxS3U8UZZyOQCLcBGAs/s1600/book%2Breview-%2Bhigh%2Bas%2Bthe%2Bheavens%2B%257Bkate%2Bbreslin%257D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V4vUCvWYEnA/WXDUinjP0AI/AAAAAAAAE-o/mrozcCw-nuUcsZh10Yk2RdxS3U8UZZyOQCLcBGAs/s1600/book%2Breview-%2Bhigh%2Bas%2Bthe%2Bheavens%2B%257Bkate%2Bbreslin%257D.png" /></a></div><br />HELLO, LOVELY PEOPLE! I am back from my road trip with the family! We got back Saturday night. The trip was <i>amazing </i>and I will hopefully be sharing lots of pictures on <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my other blog</a> (yes, I have another blog, in case you didn't know ;)) this Sunday. I...kind of skipped my post there last week. *coughs*<br /><br />Anywayyy. I have something very special for this week: a book review!! I know, I promised a Camp NaNo update...but sorry, that's not gonna happen this week. There's not much to update--except for the small fact that <i>I abruptly changed projects in the middle of the month. </i>Ahem. I'm also Very Behind at the moment. *grumbles*<br /><br />Before I devote an entire post to my rambling, allow me to present the book <i>High As the Heavens </i>by Kate Breslin!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkr-M8H7uI4/WXDPUpbMwJI/AAAAAAAAE-c/yK-I223evEcEBAD3lvjxqdxF5rjOjUzPQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/High%2BAs%2Bthe%2BHeavens%2BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkr-M8H7uI4/WXDPUpbMwJI/AAAAAAAAE-c/yK-I223evEcEBAD3lvjxqdxF5rjOjUzPQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/High%2BAs%2Bthe%2BHeavens%2BCover.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DAT COVER. *drools*</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service.&nbsp;</i></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.</i></div></i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Buy it on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/076421781X/ref=x_gr_w_glide_bb?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=x_gr_w_glide_bb-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=076421781X&amp;SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2" target="_blank">Amazon</a>!)</div><br />Before anything else, can we just take a moment to admire that cover? *sighs happily* It's even more beautiful in person!<br /><br />Now onto my long-awaited review of this lovely book. ;)<div><br /></div><div><i>(You can also read my review here <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2000956373?type=review#rating_124999231" target="_blank">originally on Goodreads.</a>)</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">// Lovely Things //</span></i></b></div><br />- <b>The plot.</b> It was so unique, as it focused on Belgium during WWI, which is actually the first of its kind that I've seen. The main character Eve works for a Belgian resistance group as a spy, and the romance revolves around a married couple rather than two people falling in love. SO YES. This was a super unique premise! There is a lot of suspense/intrigue throughout the story, and the stakes are set high. Like really high. I was on the edge of my seat at parts. o.o<br /><br />- <b>The characters. </b>YESSSS. The characters in this story were <i>the best.</i> I loved Eve and Simon, both so very different yet so very perfect for each other. Eve was gentle and compassionate but also independent and spirited. AND YES, I'M ALL FOR THAT. It's so refreshing to find characters who aren't either a) wimps or b) superhumans with no emotions. Ahem. :P And Simon was rather wonderful, too...because hello, he's Scottish. That's enough reason to like him. *winks* I also loved the supporting cast of characters: Maddie, Eve's WONDERFUL friend; Father Francois, the best priest I've ever read about in fiction--he was probably one of my top characters; and Zoe, Eve's younger sister. AND THAT'S JUST THE START. I'm in love with this amazing cast of characters!<br /><br />-<b> The themes.</b> Family plays a key role in this book. It's clear how much they all love each other, and Eve's devotion to them is really touching. There are also beautiful themes of redemption and forgiveness, as well as conquering the imprisoning power of guilt. GAH. It was all so splendidly done. &lt;3<br /><br />- <b>The excitement.</b> As I mentioned earlier, Eve is a spy. There are also double-agents, secretive messages, some brilliant spy tactics, and looooots of intrigue. THIS IS MY KIND OF BOOK, PEOPLE. I just loved the mysterious aspect of the plot.<br /><br />- <b>The writing.</b> Oh my, the writing was lovely. The descriptions were so well-done, and the writing was emotionally raw. And believe me, this is a BIG deal. If I don't have an emotional attachment to the characters, forget it. I'm just not going to properly enjoy the book. Thankfully, <i>High as the Heavens</i> does a marvelous job of pricking my emotions. LIKE CONSTANTLY. <br /><br />- <b>The flashbacks.</b> They were so heartbreaking yet so exquisitely managed. MY HEART. &lt;3 I love when books have meaningful flashbacks like that! It's a glimpse at the characters before all the heartbreaking stuff happens and IT'S SO WONDERFULLY DONE.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">// Not So Lovely Things //</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>You might be thinking, "So why four stars? It sounds like you love everything about this book."<br /><br />Wellll, you're mostly correct. Unfortunately, I did have some issues with the book.<br /><br />- <b>The content.</b> OKAY. I love Eve and Simon's relationship...BUT I felt uncomfortable at times reading about their romance. It was like spying on a married couple, and frankly, that made me feel Very Awkward. There wasn't anything over-the-top, but there were lots of kisses (some described), a bit of teasing between husband and wife (which is totally okay--I just don't feel comfortable with it seeing as I'm not married), and a couple scenes where they sleep together. They also long for each other at times, wishing they could kiss. Again, I know the characters are married, so there isn't anything wrong with their conduct. I just felt uncomfortable reading about it at times. This IS an adult book, so it's not really intended for younger audiences anyway. And thankfully, the stuff I described isn't dwelt on the entire book. The plot isn't bogged down by the romance, so I was able to keep reading it still.<br /><br />On another note, there was also one chapter in particular that was EXTREMELY HARD to read. SPOILER <span style="color: white;">[There was an attempted rape and lots of violence when the Germans invaded Belgium. That scene was unnerving and very disturbing. There were lots of dead bodies, violence, and even an unintentional murder by one of the characters. (Which they felt guilty about for years after.) On top of that, one character miscarries their child. VERY INTENSE STUFF. I understand a lot of it is necessary to the plot, but I still was horrified by things that happened in that chapter. It's a brutally honest look at the kinds of things that happened in World War I, which many people are unaware of.]</span> END SPOILER<br /><br />The content aside, I really loved this book! Due to the things I mentioned, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone unless they're at least 16+. <br /><br /><i><b>I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. </b></i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>4 stars!</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">There you have it! Another book review by yours truly. *winks* Does this book look interesting to you? What are your thoughts on historical fiction?</h4><div><br /></div><div>(P.S. If you haven't already seen it, I did <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/07/10-truths-and-2-lies-vol-2.html" target="_blank">another 10 Truths &amp; 2 Lies post </a>last week! You have until Wednesday, the 26th, to submit your guesses so you better hurry! ^_^)</div></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-57604375267830134392017-07-13T07:00:00.000-04:002017-07-13T07:20:13.389-04:0010 Truths and 2 Lies {vol. 2} //<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKTg1cVIeH4/WWGW0D6_UsI/AAAAAAAAE7A/5vzFtybE-bMdFOnlYF4d_2XumrVnfThvgCLcBGAs/s1600/10%2Btruths%2Band%2B2%2Blies%2B%257Bvol.%2B2%257D%2B%25252F%25252F.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKTg1cVIeH4/WWGW0D6_UsI/AAAAAAAAE7A/5vzFtybE-bMdFOnlYF4d_2XumrVnfThvgCLcBGAs/s1600/10%2Btruths%2Band%2B2%2Blies%2B%257Bvol.%2B2%257D%2B%25252F%25252F.png" /></a></div><br />Salutations! *waves* It's been three months since the last time I did 10 Truths and 2 Lies. Since everyone seemed to enjoy it that time, I decided to use this as my post the next time I went on a trip.<br /><br />Yep, that's right! I'm currently on a road trip with my family, probably in North Carolina when you read this. If you missed <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/04/10-truths-and-2-lies.html" target="_blank">my last Truths &amp; Lies post</a>, you can check it out here. Basically, the quick run-down of it is this: I'm posting twelve facts. Ten of them are true and two are not. The person(s) who correctly guess BOTH lies wins a prize. You only have one guess so make it a good one. :) Feel free to consult other people/stalk my blog/use your ninja skills to figure out the answers. You can thank the lovely <a href="http://nadinebrandes.com/2017/03/22/10-truths-2-lies-take-three/" target="_blank">Nadine </a>for coming up with this idea and allowing people to steal it.<br /><br />Are you ready?? HAVE AT IT, PEOPLE.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">1.) I've touched an alligator.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2.) I don't like sequins.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">3.) I've never been camping.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">4.) A big pet peeve of mine is biting into popsicles.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">5.) I don't like physical contact.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">6.) I've been on TV.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">7.) I have two siblings.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">8.) Hardcovers are my favorite book format.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">9.) I went without chewing gum for a year.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">10.) I have a pet cat.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">11.) I've eaten a scorpion lollipop.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">12.) I like pineapple pizza.</div><br /><br />If you happen to guess BOTH lies, you have your choice of a copy of my own artwork or a corner bookmark. It could be either a Studio C Funko Pop drawing (of your own choice), a Pascal sketch, or a surprise piece of artwork.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FECBPmo1TY/WWGXprSlh6I/AAAAAAAAE7E/WSEFc4_vGCIrhy7GU2hIDiy3-OaSaGPDwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FECBPmo1TY/WWGXprSlh6I/AAAAAAAAE7E/WSEFc4_vGCIrhy7GU2hIDiy3-OaSaGPDwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0645.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbW8gN9-BsQ/WWGYqIChmlI/AAAAAAAAE7I/FL5Jj5lLjL8dao_RM5Pviwj1Udy6T0CIwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbW8gN9-BsQ/WWGYqIChmlI/AAAAAAAAE7I/FL5Jj5lLjL8dao_RM5Pviwj1Udy6T0CIwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0655.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Should you choose a corner bookmark, you have your choice of either a fox, heart, or surprise bookmark.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GczMneAyVKM/WWGZTu4EZzI/AAAAAAAAE7Q/2vqHwiu5Gxst4JealkOBTKajFDOgD9sCACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0270%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GczMneAyVKM/WWGZTu4EZzI/AAAAAAAAE7Q/2vqHwiu5Gxst4JealkOBTKajFDOgD9sCACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0270%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rRtN-SKQET4/WWGZgWrZ6cI/AAAAAAAAE7U/h_07iMuwmUQotm64-ROQrnSBivC1p2U9ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0261%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rRtN-SKQET4/WWGZgWrZ6cI/AAAAAAAAE7U/h_07iMuwmUQotm64-ROQrnSBivC1p2U9ACLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0261%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Choose wisely, my friends, and may you actually get them right this time. ;) *coughs*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(Oh, and in case you're wondering, my Camp project is still being rather elusive...hoping that time away from it will give me better clarity. *glares at story* Full update once I get back from my trip!)</div><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />Are you up to the challenge? (I'm REALLY hoping I can give someone prizes this time. XD) Bring on all your best guesses and hit me with them!</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-43190278779633108382017-07-06T16:46:00.000-04:002017-07-06T16:46:08.944-04:00Camp NaNo July '17 // W E E K 1 Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l016DGxdTus/WV6atkqeikI/AAAAAAAAE6k/mxti5acRZz422ENOpN34y8K73xlGQSo_ACLcBGAs/s1600/camp%2Bnano%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bweek%2B1%2Bupdate1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l016DGxdTus/WV6atkqeikI/AAAAAAAAE6k/mxti5acRZz422ENOpN34y8K73xlGQSo_ACLcBGAs/s1600/camp%2Bnano%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2B%25252F%25252F%2Bweek%2B1%2Bupdate1.png" /></a></div><br /><i>(Apparently we're already almost a week into July?? Howwwww.)</i><br /><br />HELLO, EVERYONE. It's me again, this time actually posting on the day I'm supposed to. For the sake of picking an easy post idea, I decided to do a Camp NaNo update!<br /><br />...And quite frankly, there isn't much to see here. *coughs*<br /><br />My writing goal for the month is 20,000 words. That may seem like a lot, it may not--depends whom you ask. For me, it's a good balance between being challenging and relaxed. I think I can reach it, but still be able to purposefully take time away for my upcoming road trip (NEXT WEEK EEP) and Realm Makers (<i>only three more weeks, holy cow</i>). July is a craaazy&nbsp;month for me so I set it lower than I have in the past.<br /><br />All that being said, I'm essentially on track right now. I didn't write on Fourth of July or the day before that, but I got caught up last night. I still haven't written today, but I plan on buckling down and writing lots of words this weekend so I'm ahead before our road trip. Hopefully.<br /><br /><b>I've written 3,343 words so far.</b> I'm trying to take it a bit slower with this story since I want it to be higher quality writing than some of my previous works (like Moonlit Mirror *coughs*). So far, I'm...not totally sold on my story. It doesn't feel quite <i>right </i>yet. I'm still trying to get the feel for the characters/setting/plot. But I'm hopeful that I will really get into it this month and fall in love with my characters all over again. ;)<br /><br />SO. I'm not exactly sure if we're allowed to share our Snow White retelling entries before we submit them. But oh well, I'm sharing a couple snippets anyway. I don't think it will be a problem?? *crosses fingers* :P<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><br /><i>(The opening of the story.)</i><br /><br />Sometimes the moon stalked her.<br /><br />Adelia tucked a stray hair behind her ear and used her other gloved hand to reposition the hat on her head. Mist clung to her skin and left damp droplets on her forehead.<br /><br />The shadows of the London street had lengthened into night, and a sliver of moon grinned down at her from above. She shivered, though not from the chilly winter air.<br /><br />Someone was following her. And it wasn’t just the moon.<br /><br />Adelia ran her tongue across her chapped lips, absent of the vibrant crimson hue she usually applied. It was a good thing she had remembered to wipe off the lipstick before she entered town, otherwise she would have created a public upset.<br /><br />Yet even without her stage makeup, she still managed to attract the attention of someone.<br /><br />She felt her heart pick up its pace as she caught a glimpse of the figure behind her. He had managed to hide for most of the journey, and she had only spotted him a few minutes ago. Dressed in a black waistcoat and top hat, he was dressed just like all other Londoners. Indistinguishable from the rest of the crowd but startlingly unlike anyone she knew.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><br /><i>No.</i> She wanted to scream the word. Slap him with it. Use it to thrust him out of her life. <br /><br />But she just shivered in silence and let the fearfully grinning moon stalk her down the street.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><i>(Ta-da! I promised there would be snark, and I delivered. ;D)</i></div><div><br /></div>As he strolled away, Adelia turned to head back to her wagon, only pausing when she heard Theodore. “Who was that?” <br /><br />“Cassius Hathaway, a journalist for the newspaper.” Adelia held her hand over her neck, casually adjusting the collar of her dress to hide the stain. <br /><br />Theodore nodded, the action seeming a bit forced. “Already on a first name basis, are you?” <br /><br />“Don’t be an idiot, Theo.” Adelia had to bite her cheek to keep from laughing at the suspicion evident in her friend’s features. “It’s not as if we’re ready to elope or anything.” <br /><br />“You’ve done stupider things in the past.” <br /><br />“Name five.” <br /><br />“I would name five hundred, but then I would have to face the wrath of your half-mad younger sister. I rather value my life.” <br /><br />Adelia chuckled under her breath. “She’s very skilled at thimble-throwing.”<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">/ / /&nbsp;</span></b></div><div><br /></div><div>There you go! These are the very first snippets I've shared for Camp NaNo--I haven't even shown my cabin buddies these. ;) You might be able to tell that this story has a different tone than some of my other works. It's darker, but I'm making sure to inject my signature snark into it anyway.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>I think that's it for this update! I've had a great beginning to July. what with all the fun activities surrounding Fourth of July and the arrival of my ukulele. (IT IS BEAUTIFUL AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SHOW IT TO YOU GUYS.)</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">How is Camp going? Any plans for July? What did you do for Independence Day?&nbsp;</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-60667947496742877272017-06-29T14:00:00.000-04:002017-06-29T14:00:34.605-04:00Summer Life Update // Typewriters, Trampolines, and Trips<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5HDI_j6lQU/WVUlrWRPY1I/AAAAAAAAE5I/kbEZAaPY8xsMgz1t0GPFeK8TgV4CZ2OuQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/summer%2Blife%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5HDI_j6lQU/WVUlrWRPY1I/AAAAAAAAE5I/kbEZAaPY8xsMgz1t0GPFeK8TgV4CZ2OuQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/summer%2Blife%2Bupdate%2B%25252F%25252F.png" /></a></div><br />HELLO, PEEPS. Once again, I've been scrounging for things to post about. Life has been crazy this summer, and frankly, I haven't had a ton of time to work on blogging. After sifting through my pile of blog post drafts, I finally decided to do something incredibly original: a life update.<br /><br />I'm so creative, aren't I? *rolls eyes*<br /><br />In a way, I'm allllmost doing a monthly recap? But I'm not calling it that because then I might feel obligated to continue monthly recaps if I do. AND RECAPS APPARENTLY STRESS ME OUT A LOT?? So if you're wondering what the heck happened to Frabjous Finalities...that's what happened. And if you're NOT wondering, well...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2txI_yYaAGc/WVUiDFT8ULI/AAAAAAAAE40/B9AbuEh5bP8hIm3_JO919rr70xnfMolNwCLcBGAs/s1600/62fdaf11e859d6176c1daf03d9fa0b73%2B%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="195" data-original-width="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2txI_yYaAGc/WVUiDFT8ULI/AAAAAAAAE40/B9AbuEh5bP8hIm3_JO919rr70xnfMolNwCLcBGAs/s1600/62fdaf11e859d6176c1daf03d9fa0b73%2B%25281%2529.gif" /></a></div>Before I put you to sleep, let's get on with the actual update. ;)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>|| L A T E L Y ||</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Watching:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ Way too many movies, honestly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>+ Oh, that's not an answer? <i>(Picky, picky...)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b>ALL THE ANIMATED MOVIES</b>. Yes! In the past month or so, I've watched The Little Prince, Finding Dory, The Emperor's New Groove, The Peanuts Movie, and Moana. And I basically loved all of them. The Little Prince made me <i>cry so hard. </i>Golly, that movie was so touching. I'm honestly not sure if I liked it more or the book--they were both <b>amazing.</b> And Finding Dory? PRECIOUS. Way better than I thought it would be! Not to mention my latest find, Moana. I'M NOT ADDICTED TO THE SOUNDTRACK AT ALL, NOPE. #lies</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q21M1JpMuUQ/WVU2MdeSjgI/AAAAAAAAE5U/-na8YhUFI4E3Ko5rOIj20PgdsyRuoFirQCLcBGAs/s1600/2d07fc9accb6f7d9a43362892038e6e8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="564" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q21M1JpMuUQ/WVU2MdeSjgI/AAAAAAAAE5U/-na8YhUFI4E3Ko5rOIj20PgdsyRuoFirQCLcBGAs/s320/2d07fc9accb6f7d9a43362892038e6e8.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/196962183681641230/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />+ <b>That Darn Cat!</b> It's rather ridiculous how much I love this movie. It's one of my favorite oldies. Full of humor, fun characters, great costumes, and an engaging plot...it's just the best. If you haven't seen it before, YOU SHOULD.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtSfP-cQCSo/WVU2rpVf3oI/AAAAAAAAE5c/FtPbIZ4SJ2AsUhtF9x4NTbGgsIpe5efuACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/68da3e843f749885638f9c62337faf55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtSfP-cQCSo/WVU2rpVf3oI/AAAAAAAAE5c/FtPbIZ4SJ2AsUhtF9x4NTbGgsIpe5efuACK4BGAYYCw/s320/68da3e843f749885638f9c62337faf55.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/212935888605119132/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />+<b> Pete's Dragon.</b> AHHHHH. This film was <i>the best. </i>It just felt nostalgic and cozy and somehow PERFECT. I don't know how to explain it, really. But in case you need a solid reason to see it, there is a dragon. There. Nuff said. (And the songs played in this movie have become favorite of mine. &lt;3)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqvKw2cJd3Q/WVU3PHJkZ_I/AAAAAAAAE5k/562Dkd0FxGElibU19wpRnp2Czugdzpg-QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/d33d1179904210838ff5146ee8fae6d0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NqvKw2cJd3Q/WVU3PHJkZ_I/AAAAAAAAE5k/562Dkd0FxGElibU19wpRnp2Czugdzpg-QCK4BGAYYCw/s320/d33d1179904210838ff5146ee8fae6d0.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/119978777552278918/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />+ <b>My Fair Lady.</b> Um...so I couldn't stand this one? I know it's a beloved musical by a lot of people, but none of the characters were likable. It had a terrible ending. There was lots of language (thankfully filtered). HENRY HIGGINS WAS THE WORST. Ughhhhh. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. But in its favor, it <i>did </i>have some catchy tunes and great costumes. *shrugs*</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uGa-48u3Q4/WVU31NZwwhI/AAAAAAAAE5w/GVU00TMtjKYVd1dmmlNkPzSzWq0mIP6OgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/9f8ac8748c160e46ab3ef92bb9b7383c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uGa-48u3Q4/WVU31NZwwhI/AAAAAAAAE5w/GVU00TMtjKYVd1dmmlNkPzSzWq0mIP6OgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/9f8ac8748c160e46ab3ef92bb9b7383c.jpg" width="201" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/403635185323814401/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />Writing:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">+<b> </b>I FINISHED MY SHORT STORY!!! Yep, the steampunk short story has been completed. It's titled "Along the Lines of Lawbreaking," which I rather like. As a good friend of mine said, it hints at some of the snarkiness contained in the story. ;)&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I began plotting my Five Poisoned Apples entry. I did <a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2017/06/introducing-my-july-17-camp-nano.html" target="_blank">a whole post about it </a>last week, in case you missed that. I haven't done chapter-by-chapter plotting, but I might do some before NaNo starts in TWO DAYS. Yipes. I'm definitely running out of time to plot. :P</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I wrote <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/2017/06/struggling-sunbeam.html" target="_blank">another poem</a>, which you can read on my other blog.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Eating:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">+<b> </b>Green smoothies. I've become "that person" who makes green smoothies now. XD Surprisingly, they taste really good. (I was skeptical of all the people saying you "couldn't taste the vegetables." I thought they were lying just to make you eat veggies, haha. BUT IT'S ACTUALLY LEGIT. I couldn't even taste any of the spinach,--seriously.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ Besides healthy food, I've also had flatbread pizza. YUM.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b7/08/34/b708347a0cc3969eacbde27d4190c223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Oh, best friends for LIFE." border="0" class="_gl block col-12 absolute" height="174" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b7/08/34/b708347a0cc3969eacbde27d4190c223.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458663543286837012/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Listening:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I wrote <a href="https://silveryhorizons.blogspot.com/2017/06/in-my-headphones.html" target="_blank">an entire post</a> about this here, so I'll just link to that because I'm <strike>lazy</strike>&nbsp;efficient.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ Folk music. Oh yes, I've really gotten into folk music lately. Specifically some songs by The Oh Hellos, Gray Havens, and The Lumineers. I haven't listened to all their music, so I hesitate to recommend them...but all the songs on my playlists are great. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ Jazz. Because duh, summer. I love classic jazz music; it just makes me think of dusk and porch lights and lemonade and fireflies. &lt;3</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Reading:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*cackles* THE TIME HAS COME TO TALK OF BOOKS. I've been reading up a storm this summer.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b>Rereads:</b> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29949578-paper-crowns?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Paper Crowns</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16137649-chasing-jupiter?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Chasing Jupiter</a>, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/266904.The_Penderwicks?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Penderwicks</a>. ALL SO GOOD GAHHH. I would 10000% recommend them to everyone. They're perfect summer reads, and some of my favorite books of all time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29618105-the-lost-girl-of-astor-street?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Lost Girl of Astor Street.</a></b> This one was so good! It's a historical mystery that takes place in the 1920s. The characters are FABULOUS, and I love the setting.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25689012-the-voyage-to-magical-north?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Voyage to Magical North</a>.</b> *blows a fanfare* THIS BOOK WAS THE BEST. It's everything I love in a book: pirates, magic, humor, and great characters. EVERYONE MUST READ THIS. I actually gave it five stars, which is a high honor. I only give the finest books a solid 5 stars.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17731927-summerlost?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Summerlost</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/522471.Hope_Was_Here?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Hope Was Here</a>, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15283043-the-distance-between-us?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Distance Between Us</a>. </b>All of these books were "okay." I honestly didn't care much for any of them? *shrugs* If you're curious, I reviewed them all on Goodreads.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29737083-the-illusionist-s-apprentice?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Illusionist's Apprentice</a>.</b> SO. MANY. MIXED. FEELINGS. I thought for sure this would be one of my favorite books ever...but then the ending happened. I AM STILL CONFUSED A WEEK LATER. I guess the mystery just makes zero sense to me? #clueless BUT I rated it 4 stars anyway because the characters and writing style and setting were <i>amazing.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>+ </i><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29340787-nyssa-glass-and-the-house-of-mirrors" target="_blank">Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors</a>.</b> Ehhhh...nope. I didn't like this very much. *shakes head* It was boring and confusing and not at all what I thought it would be. :P</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ In conclusion? Most of my good books have been rereads. A few good new books, but only one that screamed awesome at me. But hey, I have read ten books this month. I can't remember ever reading that many!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Emperor's New Groove Disney Characters" class="_gl block col-12 absolute" height="226" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/6d/fb/99/6dfb993e54043e819da9d160cf9b6938.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458663543286836857/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br />Feeling:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b>Relieved</b>. I finally booked my airplane tickets for Realm Makers! YES!! That is a huge relief to me. I've been rather worried about it for the past couple months, and we finally found decently priced tickets. God has definitely been gracious in helping us with this!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b>Busy</b>. VERY BUSY. Life has been insane--no joke, it's even busier than the school year. Thankfully, it's a good kind of busy, but summer still seems to be going by way too fast. SOMEONE PLEASE SLOW DOWN TIME THANKS.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ <b>Excited</b>. What with my plans for Realm Makers set, a sleepover with my bestie tonight, and an upcoming road trip, I've been feeling really excited today. Lots of fun things on the horizon! As the title suggests, we <i>are </i>taking a road trip next month. We're going to the Smoky Mountains and stopping at some places on the way. It should be a ton of fun and hopefully very relaxing. Our vacations tend to end up crammed and stressful, so we're making an effort to enjoy the journey this time around.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Random:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I GOT A TYPEWRITER. AHHHHHHHHH. I'm super excited about it! I've actually had it for about two weeks now? I'll share some pictures of it in a later post, but it's awesome. I got it for only 5 dollars and <i>it actually works. </i>It's my first typewriter, and I've been wanting one for ages. SO MUCH EXCITEMENT.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I went to a trampoline park! Omw, that was <i style="font-weight: bold;">the best. </i>My best friend and I were SO SORE afterwards, but it was worth it. I want to go again before the summer is through because we had a blast. (It did take me like a full week till my back was normal, though. #ouch XP)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">+ I'm thinking about getting a ukulele. Actually, I'm almost positive I'll get one. My friend just purchased a uke, and we're thinking about learning together. IT'S GOING TO BE SO MUCH FUN. Once I see hers, I'll most likely decide whether or not to buy one.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt=" " class="_gl block col-12 absolute" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/ff/ef/8a/ffef8a9caae87f818919d38a8f09cb41.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458663543287362729/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />+ Fourth of July is coming up! I know that everyone has a fourth of July (I mean, <i>it's part of the calendar for everyone, haha)</i>, but this is Independence Day for us Americans. AND I'M VERY EXCITED. It's one of my favorite holidays, so I always look forward to it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, I think that's about it. Like I said, LIFE = ALL THE CRAZY. I feel like there's so much to update you guys on!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">How is your summer going so far? Have you read any good books? Any trips planned? I must know everythingggg.&nbsp;</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-28199599566229339192017-06-22T10:15:00.000-04:002017-06-22T10:15:06.359-04:00Introducing My July '17 Camp NaNo Project // Behind the Velvet Curtain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IBDmUs2dHVo/WUrr6IDRgQI/AAAAAAAAE4A/sP2jF0otqQcQhbgB29P_Psa_HKYEQWUuQCLcBGAs/s1600/introducing%2Bmy%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2Bcamp%2Bnano%2Bproject%2B%25252F%25252F.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IBDmUs2dHVo/WUrr6IDRgQI/AAAAAAAAE4A/sP2jF0otqQcQhbgB29P_Psa_HKYEQWUuQCLcBGAs/s1600/introducing%2Bmy%2Bjuly%2B%252717%2Bcamp%2Bnano%2Bproject%2B%25252F%25252F.png" /></a></div><br />It's that time of year again! It seems like just yesterday that I was doing Camp NaNo...<i><b>but it's actually been two months since it ended??</b> </i>Somebody please explain this phenomenon.<br /><br />In light of the fact that July and Camp NaNo are almost upon us, I've decided to introduce my project. YES, I'M DOING IT EARLY YAY ME. ("Early" as in nine days before July, rather than one. :P)<br /><br />July Camp is definitely really special to me. Last July was my first time ever doing a NaNoWriMo event of any kind, and I completely fell in love with it. I had a FANTASTIC cabin (and I only knew, like, two of the people in there when I joined XD), and it really stirred up the creative juices for my story. I started a fresh draft of Moonlit Mirror with no clue what I was doing. And thus my glitter-coated, squirrel-ridden story began. ;)<br /><br />As is my tendency, I didn't commit to doing Camp until about a week or two before. *rolls eyes* SERIOUSLY. We all know I'm going to end up doing it. :P My goal is a little lower this time around at 20k, mostly because I have two trips planned for July so it's going to be pretty busy. I might end up writing more than 20k? Or not? I honestly have no clue. I just decided to set it lower so there wouldn't be any stress. <i><b>(HAHAHA that's a good one, Mary. No stress. Hilarious.)</b></i><br /><br />AHEM. Anywayyyy, back to the main point of this post. *reroutes train of thought*<br /><br />Would you all like to see what I'm doing for Camp?<br /><br />Yes?<br /><br />No?<br /><br />Maybe?<br /><br />*crickets chirp in the distance*<br /><br />Oh well, you're going to find out even if you don't want to. :P<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Behind the Velvet Curtain</h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uyJyxqlAXc/WUregnk7KiI/AAAAAAAAE30/CwzohYF3r0MBZ3mT2ycqyuYaTcbiw9UfACLcBGAs/s1600/Behind%2Bthe%2BVelvet%2BCurtain%2BCover%2B1%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1003" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uyJyxqlAXc/WUregnk7KiI/AAAAAAAAE30/CwzohYF3r0MBZ3mT2ycqyuYaTcbiw9UfACLcBGAs/s400/Behind%2Bthe%2BVelvet%2BCurtain%2BCover%2B1%2B%25281%2529.png" width="250" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><i></i><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><i>Some curtains should never be lifted.</i></i></div><i> </i><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Adelia is counting down the days until she is finally free of her job as the magician's assistant. And when a young journalist rolls into town with the offer of a lifetime, she dares to hope her dream will be realized. The only thing that might shatter her hopes is the unusual mirror in her possession. When the mirror shows more than just her reflection, Adelia begins to wonder if legerdemain extends past the stage.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Life is determined to make Theodore bleed. One morning, he wakes up in an orphanage with no memory of how he got there. He runs away to join the circus and there discovers his two passions in life: the violin and performing. But with his impaired eyesight, he has no hopes of pursuing a professional career. He has no memory of his past and no prospects for the future . . . until a woman in an airship shows up at his door.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">They say the world is a stage. But in the mist-shrouded society of England, some curtains should remain closed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>*makes strangled squealing sounds* I'M SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS STORY. I actually think the synopsis turned out great. And I'm not going to lie, <b><i>writing synopses</i></b> <i style="font-weight: bold;">is so much fun for me. </i>I don't know why, haha.<br /><br />Technically, I "should be" editing Moonlit Mirror or finishing The Scent of the Sun (which I didn't finish last month as I planned). BUT WHO CARES. I got this story nugget, and I couldn't resist the temptation. :P<br /><br />Behind the Velvet Curtain is the tentative title right now. I quite like it, but I'm not sure if it's totally what I'm looking for. It's going to be a historical/steampunk/fantasy novel...kinda difficult to describe. XD And and and! IT'S MY SNOW WHITE RETELLING!! Yes, I'm planning on entering the awesome <a href="http://www.rooglewoodpress.com/writing-contest" target="_blank">Rooglewood Press contest.</a> I know it doesn't seem very much like Snow White, but trust me, you'll recognize some of the elements from the story if you read it. ;)<br /><br />I will hopefully be writing the entire novella during July, but I'm thinking about also writing another steampunk short story during July as well. Remember that one unnamed short story I've been posting snippets of on my blog? <b>Well, it's done.</b> And now I just want to write a bunch more and make a short story collection. If that happens, I miiiiight even open it up for beta readers. MAYBE. (By the way, my short story has a title now...and I sent part of it to an author for a critique. *dies* We'll see how that goes. o.o)<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Aesthetic</h4><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>aes//&nbsp;shadows. moonlight. velvet curtains. silver combs. white doves. lace. top hats. striped tents. cold metal. gilded mirrors. circus wagons. fog. stagecoaches. rosined bows. playing cards. waistcoats. buttons. phonographs. rain-streaked windows. clicking typewriters. smell of dust.&nbsp;</b></div><br /><a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="240" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/sunnyscribbler5/storyboard-behind-the-velvet-curtain/"><script async="" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></a> <br />This idea has just recently found its way to my brain, but I think that the plot is actually one of the most put-together ones I've concocted. (Note: plot is not my strong point normally.) I'm optimistic about this story, but we'll have to see how it plays out. It's kind of darker than my previous novels...but there will still be snark soooo yeah. ;)<br /><br />Oh, and you can stalk my progress <a href="http://campnanowrimo.org/campers/glitter-queen" target="_blank">here</a>, should you desire. I changed my username now, and I rather like it. *coughs*<br /><h4 style="text-align: center;"><br />What did you think of my synopsis? Do you enjoy writing synopses for your books? And are you entering the Five Poisoned Apples contest? YOU SHOULD. GO DO IT.</h4>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4954168402110760088.post-7117375013242252292017-06-15T14:05:00.001-04:002017-06-15T14:05:19.300-04:00A Cookie Book Tag //<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfqyNcs36oo/WUKnI2yGl9I/AAAAAAAAE0Y/PSfwjGhfQO0QRwjdP_kdJMMA7EtAuj_bQCLcBGAs/s1600/a%2Bcookie%2Bbook%2Btag%2B%25252F%25252F.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="550" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfqyNcs36oo/WUKnI2yGl9I/AAAAAAAAE0Y/PSfwjGhfQO0QRwjdP_kdJMMA7EtAuj_bQCLcBGAs/s1600/a%2Bcookie%2Bbook%2Btag%2B%25252F%25252F.png" /></a></div><br />(Ignore the fact that this picture was taken during Christmastime. I haven't gotten any cookie pictures since then. :P)<br /><br />SALUTATIONS! I've been scraping for ideas the past few days (seriously, I was <i>super desperate </i>to come up with something), and I finally decided to do A Cookie Book Tag! I saw this on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGYtglFNeUym0WU603M4DOQ">Shantelle's booktube channel</a> last summer and it sprang to mind recently. This tag is genius, and you can thank <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDIla4qC0ISfKenzPgghh9A">My Bookcase and I</a> for creating it. It looks so fun...because duh,&nbsp;<b><i>cookies and books.&nbsp;</i></b><br /><br />THIS TAG WAS BASICALLY MADE FOR ME.<br /><br />So here's how the tag works. There are eight different cookies, and for each cookie, I pick a book to match the description. Don't worry, it will all make sense once I actually stop gabbing and get to the tag. *coughs*<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">|| A Cookie Book Tag ||</h4><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Chip // A book that never gets old</span></b><br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osjmLji51N4/WULFKq-SyUI/AAAAAAAAE1o/Pik_FTB9EDE_CeSfRbVjY_quCdFqdznSgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Paper%2BCrowns%2BCover.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-osjmLji51N4/WULFKq-SyUI/AAAAAAAAE1o/Pik_FTB9EDE_CeSfRbVjY_quCdFqdznSgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/Paper%2BCrowns%2BCover.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /></div><div>Just one?? *dies* I have so many favorites that I could read over and over again and never stop loving them. &lt;3<br /><br />To narrow it down to three, I'll go with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29949578-paper-crowns?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Paper Crowns</a> by Mirriam Neal, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16137649-chasing-jupiter?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Chasing Jupiter</a> by Rachel Coker, and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34268.Peter_Pan?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Peter Pan</a> by J.M. Barrie. These are three of my FAVORITE books, and I literally just reread two of them this summer. If you haven't already, GO READ THESE BOOKS. *shoves them in your face*</div><div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dutch Snowballs // A book that gave you an unexpected surprise</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqHtBC2tpRA/WULBmzYZRKI/AAAAAAAAE0o/RgGDYxACgTommp2cCDPcyabGbV65ZINAwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BFalse%2BPrince%2BCover.jpg" width="211" /></b></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div>(I think these are the peanut butter cookies with the Hershey Kisses in the middle, just clarifying. ;))<br /><br />I'm going to go with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12432220-the-false-prince?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The False Prince</a> by Jennifer Nielsen. There was so much hype surrounding this series that I honestly wasn't too excited about it. (I'm weird that way...when things are popular, I get rather skeptical, hehe.)<br /><br />I'm happy to report that this book was FABULOUS. The entire series is, actually. There's sass and pirates and more sass and amazing characters and YET MORE SASS. Basically...read this for the sass, people. XD</div><div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Molasses // A book with a character that gets in a sticky situation&nbsp;</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="563" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RfhScnyETyA/WULBxtbJcII/AAAAAAAAE0s/xkTfd52RHeUIJd-uyvgwSw0sGC2-4qaCgCLcBGAs/s320/Illusionarium%2BCover.jpg" width="211" /></div><br /></div><div>Um...every book ever?? Hehe. I think one of the crucial parts of a book&nbsp;is making sure there is conflict with the character's main goals...which means there will inevitably be some sort of sticky situation. (Admire my alliteration mastery, peasants.)<br /><br />But if I had to pick one, I would go with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22840398-illusionarium?ac=1&amp;from_search=true#" target="_blank">llusionarium</a> by Heather Dixon. The main character basically has four days (I think) to find a cure to a disease that is wiping out the entire female population. He's thrown into another world, and suddenly he has to figure out a way to save both realities.<br /><br />Annnnd he has a cocky airpilot with him, and that makes things even stickier. *coughs*<br /><br />Runner-up would be <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Howl's Moving Castle</a> by Diana Wynne Jones. I mean, the main character is turned into an old woman and has to figure out how to reverse the spell so I'd say that's a rather uncomfortable situation to be in.<br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Oreo // A book dealing with the light and the darkness</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4P6jZRPx4Q0/WULCcyKGpTI/AAAAAAAAE00/Ea8MEe5BZzUyNerc_wi55vhP4YmHAqzBQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/The%2BLion%252C%2Bthe%2BWitch%2Band%2Bthe%2BWardrobe.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4P6jZRPx4Q0/WULCcyKGpTI/AAAAAAAAE00/Ea8MEe5BZzUyNerc_wi55vhP4YmHAqzBQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BLion%252C%2Bthe%2BWitch%2Band%2Bthe%2BWardrobe.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/140212.The_Lion_the_Witch_and_the_Wardrobe" target="_blank">The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe</a>&nbsp;by C.S. Lewis. It's a classic, guys. Lewis was a genius at allegory--which, by the way, is <i>not </i>one of my favorite types of fantasy--and he created a magical world that just feels like home. Not as much as Middle-earth, but still very homey.</div><div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sugar // A book with a sugary sweet villain</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Bz0p8IRvYQ/WULDLSlKRQI/AAAAAAAAE08/wHqSVo0nSfEikkcSH6fnkqFAAgzJW-KVACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/The%2BChoosing%2BCover.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Bz0p8IRvYQ/WULDLSlKRQI/AAAAAAAAE08/wHqSVo0nSfEikkcSH6fnkqFAAgzJW-KVACK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BChoosing%2BCover.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div>*scratches head* I think this is supposed to mean a villain that <i>pretends </i>to be good but is actually evil? Or something like that?<br /><br />In that case, I'll go with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23627067-the-choosing?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Choosing</a> by Rachelle Dekker and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1885.Pride_and_Prejudice?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Pride and Prejudice</a> by Jane Austen. The first one has this seriously messed-up person who fools everyone into thinking he's good...but is actually Very Evil. And Pride and Prejudice? You have Mr. Wickham--the guy who fools Elizabeth into thinking he's a "poor miserable soul" who had his life ruined by Darcy. *rolls eyes* Ugh.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458663543287362747/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jUslkzmDb6s/WULDsVPD7QI/AAAAAAAAE1E/Qc5WtpTy7IU94jtAti9TxDB8aAmEhi_IACK4BGAYYCw/s320/7a1930a7fa05e3ab65ad12ee135ae98e.gif" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Monster // A book that confused your emotions</span></b></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMfGquOnrkI/WULEE0AuokI/AAAAAAAAE1M/ulhK6UM1yb00lLgOTQHitn9sp2nYdz1EwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/The%2BLast%2BDragonslayer%2BCover.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMfGquOnrkI/WULEE0AuokI/AAAAAAAAE1M/ulhK6UM1yb00lLgOTQHitn9sp2nYdz1EwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BLast%2BDragonslayer%2BCover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /></div><div>By this point, I'm sure you've discovered I'm terrible at narrowing my choices to just one book. :P<br /><br />Well, I've got two for you again: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13316328-the-last-dragonslayer?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Last Dragonslayer</a> by Jasper Fforde and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125956.Black?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">Black</a> by Ted Dekker. These are both books that I have very confused thoughts about. The Last Dragonslayer had a really disappointing ending, and Black was just...not my thing. But I still liked aspects of both books?? IT'S ALL VERY CONFUSING, HONESTLY.</div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-size: large;">Snickerdoodle // A book that made you laugh</span></b></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1X_5kOi2k4/WULEgNN7Y8I/AAAAAAAAE1c/wuehA9ek8bcgTxffpVyPOGU7pw6awCXswCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/The%2BReluctant%2BGodfather%2BCover.jpg"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1X_5kOi2k4/WULEgNN7Y8I/AAAAAAAAE1c/wuehA9ek8bcgTxffpVyPOGU7pw6awCXswCK4BGAYYCw/s320/The%2BReluctant%2BGodfather%2BCover.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br /></div><div>I'm notorious for being the crazy person who laughs out loud randomly in her room while reading a book. Therefore, I have many books that make me laugh...a lot. But the first one that comes to mind is <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33387751-the-reluctant-godfather?ac=1&amp;from_search=true" target="_blank">The Reluctant Godfather</a> by Allison Tebo. YOU GUYS. This book = alllllll the hilarity. There's a grumpy, sarcastic godfather who loves to bake. DOESN'T THAT SOUND AMAZING?? (Hint: it is.) I probably highlighted every other sentence while reading it on my Kindle.<br /><br />In other words: THIS BOOK IS THE FUNNIEST THING EVER.</div><div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Peanut Butter // A book with a nutty character</span></b></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdWQXmr2Wgk/WULE1cpP5WI/AAAAAAAAE1g/uplUQwBMWTs6EbvZlwQS0qtSLbt4qqOUQCLcBGAs/s1600/Lady%2BMoon%2BCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdWQXmr2Wgk/WULE1cpP5WI/AAAAAAAAE1g/uplUQwBMWTs6EbvZlwQS0qtSLbt4qqOUQCLcBGAs/s320/Lady%2BMoon%2BCover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /></div><div>I have a bit of an obsession with nutty characters. Probably because I'm as nutty as crunchy peanut butter.<br /><br />There are lots of nutty characters in the books I read, but <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34519341-lady-moon" target="_blank">Lady Moon</a> by Rachel Starr Thomson has some of the nuttiest. They are so. much. fun. EVEN THE VILLAIN.<br /><br />I love this book so much that I gave it the honor of being<a href="http://sunshineandscribblings.blogspot.com/2016/04/book-review-lady-moon-rachel-starr.html" target="_blank"> the first book I ever reviewed on my blog.</a> AND I REALLY NEED TO REREAD IT ACTUALLY. It's one of my faaaaves.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>/ / /&nbsp;</b></span></div><br />Now for the lucky recipients of this tag! I know that I'm a tag pirate who, whenever she does a tag, ends up doing one she WASN'T tagged for to begin with (*COUGH*), but I'm still following some of the rules here and tagging people.<br /><br />Tracey // <a href="http://traceydyck.blogspot.ca/">Adventure Awaits</a><br />Faith // <a href="https://thefloridsword.blogspot.com/">The Writer's Song</a><br />Lisa // <a href="http://thisinkwell.blogspot.com/">Inkwell</a><br />Laura // <a href="http://theoddlifeofegy.blogspot.ca/">An Odd Blog</a><br />Jonny //<a href="http://fishing4ideas.blogspot.com/"> Fishing for Ideas</a><br />Deborah // <a href="https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com/">The Road of a Writer</a><br />Victoria // <a href="http://storitorigrace.blogspot.com/">Wanderer's Pen</a><br />Savannah // <a href="http://scattered-scribblings.blogspot.com/">Scattered Scribblings</a><br /><br />As always, there's no pressure to do this tag. Feel free to do what I do and wait months...or years...or forever to do it. Unlike real cookies, A Cookie Book Tag never goes stale. ;)<br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: center;">Have you read any of the books on my list? What is your favorite cookie? And do you have any book recommendations?? I'M DESPERATE FOR GOOD BOOKS. *dramatically faints*</h4><br /></div>m a r y l i zhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14505343613442203117noreply@blogger.com11